Postdoctoral Research Associate in Computational Protein Engineering

Los Alamos National Security LLC; Los Alamos (NM); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental and vision insurance

Relocation package

Retirement benefit

Job summary

Los Alamos National Laboratory in Los Alamos, NM, invites applications for a postdoctoral researcher to fuse artificial intelligence, machine learning, and experimental protein engineering for environmental bioremediation projects. You will work across computational modeling, protein design, cloning, expression, purification, and validation.

The role requires a Ph.D. within the last five years or expected completion, experience in structural modeling (AlphaFold/Rosetta), and the ability to

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field completed within the last five years (or expected by start date).
• Hands-on laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques and cell culturing.
• Strong peer-reviewed publication record for career stage.
• Ability to obtain a DOE Q clearance (U.S. citizenship).

Responsibilities

• Perform protein structural modeling and design to improve enzymatic activity.
• Conduct computational analysis of structures and dynamics to identify target mutations.
• Assist in experimental validation including cloning, expression, purification.
• Communicate results effectively in written, graphical, and oral formats.

Skills

Protein modeling

Molecular biology

Computational analysis

Communication

Education

PhD in STEM field

Tools

AlphaFold

Rosetta

Protein docking

Job description

What You Will Do

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) Bioscience Division, Genomics and Bioanalytics (B-GEN) is seeking a highly motivated, productive, and multi-talented postdoctoral researcher to pursue research applying artificial intelligence and machine learning to engineer proteins for environmental bioremediation applications. This interdisciplinary position uniquely combines computational modeling with experimental protein engineering and biochemistry. Thus, the ideal candidate would have experience in both computational and experimental methodologies, including protein structural modeling, protein docking, molecular biology, and cell culturing. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research while developing expertise in both computational and experimental approaches. Additional projects of interest will also be available depending on candidate interests.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform protein structural modeling and rational protein design to improve a target enzymatic activity
• Perform computational analysis of protein structures and dynamics to identify target mutations for improved activity
• Contribute to experimental validation of engineered proteins, including cloning, expression, purification, and characterization
• Effectively communicate results in both written, graphical, and oral formats

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements

• Ph.D. in a relevant STEM field completed within the last five years (or expected by the start date). Dissertation defense must be completed by position start date, with letter from university assuring degree completion if starting before commencement ceremonies
• Preferred training in protein modeling, including structural prediction (AlphaFold, Rosetta) and protein docking
• Hands-on laboratory experience with molecular biology techniques (cloning, protein expression, purification) and cell culturing
• Strong peer-reviewed publication record commensurate with career stage
• Demonstrated excellence in written and oral communication (e.g., manuscripts, reports, presentations)
• Ability to obtain a DOE Q clearance (required U.S. citizenship)

Desired Qualifications

• Demonstration of effectively bridging computational and experimental approaches
• Experience with molecular dynamics simulations
• Experience with plasmid construction and bacterial transformation techniques
• Proficiency in data visualization and statistical analysis tools

Required Application Materials

• Current resume/CV
• Current official transcripts
• Cover letter/personal statement of interest, not to exceed one page

Work Environment

The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Work Schedule

This position is located in Los Alamos, NM. Candidates may work a 9/80 schedule at the discretion of management and in accordance with the Postdoc Program Resource Guide. Initial appointment is for two years; a third year may be possible based on performance and programmatic need. Exceptional candidates may be considered for LANL Director's Fellowships and named fellowships.

Note to Applicants

Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

• PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
• Dental and vision insurance
• Free basic life and disability insurance
• Paid childbirth and parental leave
• Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
• Onsite gyms and wellness programs
• Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2. Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Clearance: Q

Position will be cleared to this level. Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad. *Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

Internal Applicants

Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity

Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to [e-mail] or call (505)-664-6947.