Postdoctoral Associate - Xu Lab

The Herbert Wertheim UF Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ling Xu laboratory at The Wertheim UF Scripps Institute invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position focused on pathogenetic RNA structural biology using state-of-the-art cryo-EM and related technologies. The lab studies RNA and RNA-protein complexes that maintain genome integrity and mediate innate immunity, employing cryo-EM, biochemistry, and computational biology to map interactions at high resolution.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. and/or M.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. and/or MD in an appropriate scientific discipline required.
• Experience with RNA structural biology and cryo-EM is preferred.
• Strong publication record is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Designing and conducting independent research projects aligned with the lab’s scientific goals.
• Planning, performing, and troubleshooting experiments, depending on project needs.
• Analyzing experimental data, maintaining accurate research records, and presenting results in lab meetings.
• Contributing to manuscript preparation, figure generation, and publication of research findings.
• Assisting with grant-related preliminary studies and other research development activities.
• Mentoring graduate and undergraduate students and other trainees in experimental design and laboratory techniques.
• Keeping up to date with relevant literature and contributing to new research directions.
• Collaborating with lab members and external collaborators.

Education

Ph.D. and/or MD in an appropriate scientific discipline

Tools

Cryo-EM

Job description

Classification Title

Postdoctoral Associate

Classification Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. and/or MD in an appropriate scientific discipline required.

Job Description

The Ling Xu laboratory at The Wertheim UF Scripps Institute invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate position focused on pathogenetic RNA structural biology using state‑of‑the‑art cryo‑EM and related technologies. The Ling Xu Lab investigates the structure, dynamics, and regulatory mechanisms of RNA and RNA‑protein complexes that maintain genome integrity, mediate innate immunity, and impact human health. Using a combination of cryo‑electron microscopy, biochemistry, and computational biology, the lab visualizes how RNA molecules fold, assemble with proteins, and perform complex cellular functions. By mapping these interactions at high resolution, the research aims to uncover fundamental principles linking RNA structure to biological activity.

Responsibilities

• Designing and conducting independent research projects aligned with the lab’s scientific goals.
• Planning, performing, and troubleshooting experiments, depending on project needs.
• Analyzing experimental data, maintaining accurate research records, and presenting results clearly in lab meetings and other scientific settings.
• Contributing to manuscript preparation, figure generation, and publication of research findings.
• Assisting with grant-related preliminary studies and other research development activities.
• Mentoring graduate students, undergraduate students, and other trainees in experimental design and laboratory techniques.
• Keeping up to date with relevant literature and contributing intellectually to the development of new research directions.
• Collaborating effectively with lab members and external collaborators.

Expected Salary

Commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. and/or MD in an appropriate scientific discipline required.

Preferred

• Candidates with a strong published track record are preferred.
• This position is in a laboratory environment.
• Physical requirements will be discussed during interview.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.