POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

Sanford Burnham Prebys; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 77,000; Full time

Job summary

Sanford Burnham Prebys invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellow in the Feng Laboratory to determine high-resolution structures of membrane proteins using cryo-EM and to apply biochemical and biophysical approaches to function and structure–function studies.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative, well-funded environment with access to Titan Krios/K3, Tecnai T12, and core facilities for growth, publications, and professional development in San Diego.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, neuroscience or a related field.
• Experience in cryo-EM imaging and data processing is required.
• Experience in protein expression, protein purification, electrophysiological recording or computational biology is advantageous.
• A strong track record of research achievements and excellent communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to learn to advance projects
• Generate hypotheses, design experiments, interpret data, trouble shoot and optimize experiments
• Be able to analyze and interpret data from different sources and draw relevant conclusions
• Be able to present results at internal and external meetings
• Accurately document experiments
• Contribute to the writing of reports and manuscripts with increasing responsibility over time
• Work collaboratively across lab functions and train other junior lab staff as needed

Skills

Strong communication

Mentorship

Organizational skills

Problem-solving

Time management

Interpersonal skills

Education

PhD in Biochemistry or related field

Tools

Cryo-EM

Protein expression

Protein purification

Electrophysiological recording

Job description

Sanford Burnham Prebys is much more than a research facility and hub for innovation; it’s a vibrant global community of talented scientists and researchers from over 30 countries. This worldwide representation enriches our perspectives and enhances our creative approach to solving complex scientific challenges.

We strive to be leaders not only in biomedical research but also in creating an environment where excellence thrives through collaboration across cultures and backgrounds. Our mission is to advance the biomedical sciences by cultivating the next generation of scientific leaders, providing meaningful opportunities for researchers of all backgrounds to learn, innovate, and make breakthrough discoveries that improve human health.

Together, we translate science into health.

The duties and responsibilities contained in the job description are intended to be examples of the accountabilities for which the person in the position will demonstrate competency through performance. The job description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list. Duties and responsibilities are subject to change and other duties may be assigned as necessary.

Position Summary:

The Feng Laboratory at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute invites applications for a highly motivated and passionate Postdoctoral Fellow to join our research team. Our laboratory is dedicated to uncovering the structural and functional mechanisms of disease-related membrane proteins and protein complexes, with a particular focus on endogenous ion channels. In this role, the Postdoctoral Fellow will: Employ cutting-edge cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine high-resolution structures of membrane proteins and protein complexes. Apply a broad range of biochemical and biophysical approaches to investigate protein function and elucidate structure–function relationships. The successful candidate will become an integral member of a collaborative and supportive research environment, with extensive opportunities for professional development, interdisciplinary collaboration, and scientific growth. Researchers have access to state-of-the-art core facilities on campus, including cryo-EM instrumentation (Titan Krios/K3 and Tecnai T12), biophysics facilities, protein expression and purification resources, and other advanced research infrastructure. This is a fully funded position that offers an excellent opportunity to pursue sustained, high-impact research, develop expertise in structural and functional biology, and generate strong publications.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Demonstrate knowledge and ability to learn to advance projects
• Generate hypotheses, design experiments, interpret data, trouble shoot and optimize experiments
• Be able to analyze and interpret data from different sources and draw relevant conclusions
• Be able to present results at internal and external meetings
• Accurately document experiments
• Contribute to the writing of reports and manuscripts with increasing responsibility over time
• Work collaboratively across lab functions and train other junior lab staff as needed

Education and/or Experience:

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, neuroscience or a related field.
• Experience in cryo-EM imaging and data processing is required
• Experience in protein expression, protein purification, electrophysiological recording or computational biology is advantageous.
• A strong track record of research achievements and excellent communication skills.

Other Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities:

• Have strong organizational and problem-solving skills
• Excellent data presentation, verbal, and written communication skills
• Possess strong attention to detail, analytical, time management, and interpersonal skills
• Embody the Institute's core values of Commitment, Collaboration, Communication, Community and Compassion
• Provide mentorship to interns and lab members of various skill levels

Supervisory Responsibilities:

Direct: None

Indirect: None

Work Location

This is an onsite position; candidates must be willing to work onsite in San Diego. Out-of-state applicants must disclose their willingness to relocate.

Compensation

The expected hiring rate for this position is $70,304.00 - $77,334.40/annually commensurate with Postdoctoral experience.

Reference Letters (all applicants)

All Postdoctoral Associate applicants must arrange for three (3) letters of recommendation. Letters should be provided by mentors, supervisors, collaborators, or other professional colleagues who are familiar with the applicant’s research qualifications and potential. Recommendation letters should be sent to [e-mail].

We welcome talented individuals of all backgrounds regardless of gender, sex, religion, race, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, perceived disability, pregnancy, pregnancy-related condition, reproductive health decisions, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDS, marital status, covered veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations. We are proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer.

As part of this commitment, Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations for the hiring process. If a reasonable accommodation is needed, please contact our Benefits Team at [phone] or via e-mail [e-mail]