Postdoctoral Researcher - Biophysics

The Medical College of Wisconsin, Inc.; United States; On-site; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Medical College of Wisconsin, Inc. in Wisconsin is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our Biophysics lab investigating fetal brain injury and mechanisms of acquired motor disorders in children.

The role emphasizes redox biology, preclinical models, and potential perinatal therapeutic interventions. The position offers opportunities to develop novel experimental approaches, lead projects, and collaborate in a well-resourced environment with strengths in EPR, NMR, and MRI.

Qualifications

• PhD or PhD candidate within 3 months of start date.
• Hands-on experience in protein analysis, stem cell culture, and microscopy methods preferred.
• Strong background in protein or redox signaling biochemistry.

Responsibilities

• Perform in vitro transcription, qPCR, and protein sequencing analysis.
• Complete expression, purification, and characterization of mammalian recombinant enzymes.
• Conduct biochemical assays to study loss or gain of function in cells expressing mutant proteins.
• Isolate cells from tissues, perform cell culture, and conduct microscopy/immunofluorescence assays.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
• Present research findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.
• Mentor and contribute to training and scientific development within the lab.
• Assist with the development of grant proposals and collaborative research initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Molecular biology

Protein analysis

Microscopy

qPCR

Cell culture

Education

PhD or PhD candidate within 3 months of start date

Tools

Immunofluorescence

Protein purification

Enzyme-substrate docking analysis

Job description

Summary The Vasquez-Vivar Lab in the Department of Biophysics at the Medical College of Wisconsin is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our research team focused on fetal brain injury and the mechanisms of acquired motor disorders in children. We use a multidisciplinary approach that integrates redox biology, biochemical, and preclinical models to explore gain- and loss-of-function relationships and identify opportunities for therapeutic perinatal interventions. This position offers an exciting opportunity for candidates passionate about redox cell biology, with the potential to develop novel experimental approaches and lead research projects in a collaborative and well-resourced environment. The Department of Biophysics at the Medical College of Wisconsin has a rich tradition of innovation and excellence in redox and structural biology and biomedical imaging, with strengths in EPR (electron paramagnetic resonance), NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), and MRI (clinical magnetic resonance imaging). MCW is Wisconsin’s largest private research institution and the third-largest private medical school in the U.S. The institution fosters a collaborative environment that integrates basic science, clinical research, and education to advance biomedical knowledge and human health.

Primary Responsibilities

• Perform in vitro transcription, qPCR, and protein sequencing analysis.
• Complete expression, purification, and characterization of mammalian recombinant enzymes.
• Conduct biochemical assays to study loss or gain of function in cells expressing mutant proteins.
• Isolate cells from tissues, perform cell culture, and conduct microscopy/immunofluorescence assays.
• Analyze experimental data, interpret results, and contribute to manuscript preparation.
• Present research findings at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and scientific conferences.
• Mentor and contribute to training and scientific development within the lab.
• Assist with the development of grant proposals and collaborative research initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Minimum Required Education: Ph.D. or PhD candidate within 3 months of the start date.
• Minimum Required Experience: 0 years.
• Preferred Education: PhD in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• Preferred Experience: Hands‑on experience in protein analysis, stem cell culture, and microscopy methods.
• Familiarity with enzyme‑substrate docking analysis.
• Strong background in protein or redox signaling biochemistry.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and troubleshoot experiments.
• First‑author publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.

Physical Requirements

Work requires occasionally lifting moderate weight materials, standing, or walking continuously.

Work Environment

Occasional exposure to dust, noise, temperature changes, or contact with water or other liquids. Work is performed in an environmentally controlled environment. Sensory Acuity Ability to detect and translate speech or other communication required. May occasionally require the ability to distinguish colors and perceive relative distances between objects.

Why MCW?

• Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental.
• Along with Flexible Spending options
• 403B Retirement Package
• Competitive Vacation and Paid Holidays offered
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP)
• Pet Insurance
• On campus Fitness Facility, offering onsite classes
• Additional discounted rates on items such as: Select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation and entertainment etc.

For a brief overview of our benefits see: Benefits Overview For a full list of positions see: MCW Careers At MCW all of our endeavors, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: Caring – Collaborative – Curiosity – Inclusive – Integrity – Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives through merit‑based processes and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you. For more information, please visit our institutional website.

Equal Opportunity Employer

MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non‑Discrimination: The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

About Us

Together, we can build a healthier world. A student, an educator, a scientist and a community leader — alone, they can do many things. Together, the question isn’t what they can do, but what can’t they. The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) brings together the most inquisitive, passionate minds in science, medicine, education and community engagement to tackle today’s toughest challenges in health and society. Academic medicine is at the center of where scientists, physicians and students work hand-in-hand with the community to ask the most important questions and fuel the cycle of innovation that shapes the future of medicine. Medical College of Wisconsin The tireless pursuit of knowledge and the power of academic medicine is at the core of everything we do at MCW. Bringing together the world’s top scientists and clinicians, inspired students and invested communities, we are driven to solve the most complex challenges in health and society. With around 1,600 full‑time and part‑time faculty and approximately 3,500 full‑time employees, MCW is home to a diverse group of thought leaders working in collaboration to pioneer pathways to a healthier world and drive a continuous cycle of life‑changing discovery.