Postdoctoral Research Associate, Distel Laboratory

GlycoData; Massachusetts; On-site; USD 59,425 - 83,935; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Massachusetts seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to conduct cutting-edge research on host-symbiont interactions. Candidates will collaborate with a network of established collaborators, support student mentorship, and assist in lab management. The role requires a PhD in microbiology or a related field along with strong skills in molecular biology and microbiology. Competitive salary range is provided based on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent in microbiology, molecular biology, or a related biological discipline is required.
• Knowledge in molecular biology, genomics/metagenomics, bioinformatics, microbiology, or microbial ecology.
• Ability to conduct substantial full-time research under guidance.

Responsibilities

• Use microbiological, physiological, ecological, and molecular techniques to study host-symbiont interactions.
• Design and conduct experiments, analyze results, and collaborate with other researchers.
• Help supervise and train student research assistants.
• Assist with general management of the Distel laboratory.

Skills

Molecular biology

Microbial ecology

Genomics/metagenomics

Bioinformatics

Invertebrate zoology

SCUBA diving

Education

PhD or equivalent in microbiology or related discipline

Tools

Microscopy techniques

Job description

Postdoctoral Research Associate, Distel Laboratory – Northeastern University

Location: Nahant, MA

Posted on: October 07, 2025

Description:

The College of Science aims to align postdoctoral salaries with the NIH recommended Post-Graduate Year (PGY) levels whenever funding allows. The salary for this position is $62,232, and may vary based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidate will (1) use microbiological, physiological, ecological, and molecular techniques to study host-symbiont interactions in the shipworm symbiotic model system, (2) design and conduct experiments and analyze results as part of a structured research program created in cooperation with the lead PI, (3) maintain laboratory cultures of shipworms and bacterial symbionts for use in research, and (4) interact with a network of established collaborators at other institutions. Limited field research may also be possible.

Lead and support the authorship and preparation of research papers and grant proposals.

Help supervise and train student research assistants.

Assist with the general management of the Distel laboratory.

Qualifications

• A PhD or equivalent in microbiology, molecular biology, or a related biological discipline is required.
• Candidates should also have knowledge in one or more of the following areas: molecular biology, genomics/metagenomics, bioinformatics, microbiology, microbial ecology, invertebrate zoology, and symbiosis.
• Candidates must be capable of conducting substantial full-time research and scholarship under the guidance of a senior scholar.

Preferred experience/skills

• Proficiency in basic molecular biology or genetic engineering techniques.
• Proficiency in basic bioinformatics and microbial genomics/metagenomics.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with a team and serve as a mentor to both graduate and undergraduate students.
• Knowledge of core concepts in microbiology, microbial physiology, and microbial ecology.
• Experience in microbial cultivation and sterile technique. Experience with invertebrate culture is a plus.
• Experience with various microscopy techniques, such as fluorescent in situ hybridization, confocal microscopy, microCT, and electron microscopy.
• Ability to SCUBA dive within the AAUS framework is a plus.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.

All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Compensation Grade/Pay Type:

108S

Expected Hiring Range:

$59,425.00 - $83,935.00

With the pay range(s) shown above, the starting salary will depend on several factors, which may include your education, experience, location, knowledge and expertise, and skills as well as a pay comparison to similarly-situated employees already in the role. Salary ranges are reviewed regularly and are subject to change.