Postdoctoral Associate, Physiology and Biophysics

University at Buffalo; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The University at Buffalo seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join the Qin Laboratory for Dynamic Structural Biophysics in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics. The lab focuses on time-resolved approaches to study thermoTRP channels and protein dynamics, integrating structural biology, electrophysiology, and quantitative biophysics.

We offer mentorship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to develop new methods and publish high-impact work.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry/ Biophysics / Structural Biology / Molecular Biology / Neuroscience.
• Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable, but not required: electrophysiology, protein biochemistry, structural biology, cryo-EM, fluorescent microscopy.
• Applicants should have or be close to completing a Ph.D. in a related discipline.

Skills

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in Biochemistry/ Biophysics / Structural Biology / Molecular Biology / Neuroscience

Tools

Electrophysiology

Protein biochemistry

Structural biology

Cryo-EM

Fluorescent microscopy

Job description

Postdoctoral Position Available Immediately

Qin Laboratory for Dynamic Structural Biophysics

Department of Physiology and Biophysics

Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences

University at Buffalo

Our Vision: Observe Biology in Motion

Biology happens in motion. Yet most structural and biophysical methods capture only static snapshots. Our laboratory seeks to understand dynamic molecular mechanisms underpinning protein function. We integrate structural biology, electrophysiology, quantitative biophysics, and computational approaches to visualize transient molecular events and uncover the physical principles that govern protein function. Our philosophy is simple: When existing tools cannot answer important biological questions, we build new ones. This has led to innovations ranging from the QuB software suite for single-channel kinetic analysis, to submillisecond temperature-clamp electrophysiology, differential scanning calorimetry for thermal activation, and now time-resolved cryo-EM. Together, these approaches are establishing a new framework for dynamic structural biophysics.

Current Research

Our current biological focus is thermoTRP ion channels - molecular sensors of temperature and pain. Beyond these fascinating proteins, our long-term goal is to develop broadly applicable approaches for studying protein dynamics across diverse biological systems.

Current Research Includes

• Decoding the mechanisms of temperature sensing by ion channels
• Developing and applying time-resolved cryo-EM to capture previously inaccessible conformational states
• Engineering ultrafast perturbation methods that trigger and trap dynamic protein motions in real time.
• Integrating structural, electrophysiological, thermodynamic, and computational approaches into quantitative models of protein dynamics

Faculty profile and publications here.

The Opportunity

This position offers the opportunity to participate in an innovative, interdisciplinary research program at the interface of structural biology, electrophysiology, instrumentation, and quantitative biophysics. Working closely with Professor Qin and collaborators, the successful candidate will contribute to exciting biological discoveries while building a broad foundation in modern structural and biophysical research.

The laboratory emphasizes close mentoring, creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and professional development, providing an environment in which trainees progress from guided research to increasing scientific independence while developing their own scientific ideas, learning new techniques, and producing high-quality publications.

We do not expect applicants to have expertise in every aspect of our research.

Laboratory members come from diverse backgrounds, including electrophysiology, structural biology, protein biochemistry, computation, physics, and engineering. We build on each individual's strengths while providing opportunities to broaden their expertise, learn new methodologies, and collaborate across disciplines in a supportive environment.

Professor Qin has over 30 years of mentoring experience and is committed to helping trainees develop into independent scientists through personalized mentoring, scientific freedom, interdisciplinary collaboration, and opportunities to lead innovative research, publish impactful work, and prepare for independent research careers.

Qualifications

Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, Neuroscience, Physiology, Biomedical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is desirable, but not required:

• Electrophysiology
• Protein biochemistry
• Structural biology
• Cryo-EM
• Fluorescent microscopy

Most importantly, we seek motivated, creative, intellectually curious scientists who enjoy tackling important biological problems and are excited to learn new approaches beyond their original area of expertise.

Research Environment

The laboratory provides a highly interdisciplinary environment integrating structural biology, electrophysiology, fluorescence microscopy, protein biochemistry, thermodynamics, instrumentation development, and quantitative modeling.

Our long-standing collaboration with Brookhaven National Laboratory provides access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM facilities and expertise.

Salary, Benefits, and Career Development

This position is available immediately.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with experience following current NIH guidelines.

Working at UB comes with benefits that exceed salary alone. There are personal rewards including comprehensive health and retirement plan options. We also focus on creating and sustaining a healthy mix of work, personal and academic pursuit - all in an effort to support your work-life effectiveness. Visit our benefits website to learn about our benefit packages.

Visa sponsorship is available for qualified international applicants.

About UB

The University at Buffalo is SUNY’s most comprehensive public research university, and an outstanding place to work. UB amplifies ambition for faculty and staff by offering endless possibilities to achieve more. Here, people from all backgrounds and cultures challenge and inspire each other to discover, learn and succeed. Dedicated staff and engaged faculty collaborate to further knowledge and understanding, and develop tenacious graduates who are valued for their talents and their impact on global society. Visit our website to learn more about the University at Buffalo: https://www.buffalo.edu

As an Equal Opportunity / AffIrmative Action employer, the Research Foundation will not discriminate in its employment practices due to an applicant’s race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin and veteran or disability status.