Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational Chemistry

exp1-prod-web.syr; City of Syracuse (NY); On-site; USD 62,000 - 67,000; Full time

Job summary

Syracuse University in Syracuse, NY seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher in Computational Chemistry to contribute to the Acharya group (ACompChemLab). You will perform multiscale modeling of biological systems, work under Dr. Acharya, and pursue independent funding opportunities.

The initial appointment is 1 year and renewable based on performance and funding. The role requires on‑campus presence and collaboration with students and colleagues to advance research in electronic structure, QM/MM, and ML

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related subjects.
• Experience in electronic structure theory, QM/MM simulations, and/or MD simulations.
• Experience with building machine learning models in a biochemical context.
• Experience in coding and scripting (e.g., python, tcl)

Responsibilities

• Prepare biochemical systems in their native environments and perform equilibrium and non‑equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, including free‑energy calculations for systems studied by Dr. Acharya’s group (ACompChemLab).
• Set up and perform electronic structure and multiscale QM/MM calculations. Build a database for machine learning models and develop models for electronic properties.
• Perform network analysis and build machine learning models relevant for allosteric processes.
• Provide technical help to other students and prepare presentations
• Write and publish peer‑reviewed research papers and assist Dr. Acharya, as required.
• Travel and present research at conferences, as appropriate.

Skills

Machine learning in biochemistry

MD/QM/MM/MD simulations

Coding/scripting (Python, Tcl)

Independent researcher

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry or related field

Tools

NAMD/AMBER/CHARMM/GROMACS

Python

tcl

VMD/PyMOL/UCSF Chimera

Job description

Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational Chemistry

Job Title

Postdoctoral Researcher - Computational Chemistry

Location

Campus

Commitment to On-Campus Experience

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in‑person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.

Pay Range

Pay Range $62,400 - $67,400

Salary offers at Syracuse University will be based on education, experience, and relevant skills, as well as the academic or professional discipline of the position in the context of the home department, school, or college. Salary offers may also be influenced by prior relevant work or industry experience, where applicable. Faculty pay ranges are for 8.5 months’ salary unless otherwise specified.

FLSA Status

FLSA Status Exempt

Hours

As determined by principal investigator

Job Type

Job Type Full-time

Rank

Rank Post Doc

Unionized Position Code Not Applicable

Job Description

The Acharya group (ACompChemLab) uses multiscale computational modeling to investigate complex biological systems spanning bacteria, viruses, and light‑sensitive proteins, particularly emphasizing the native protein, lipid, and sugar environments. More details about ACompChemLab may be found at www.acharyalab.com The postdoctoral associate is expected to participate in these projects. The successful candidate will have Dr. Acharya’s support for their career development efforts, including attempting to get independent research funding. The candidate will have access to the resources available to ACompChemLab to do so. The initial appointment will be for 1‑year and renewable upon mutual agreement based on an annual performance review and funding availability.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related subjects.
• Experience in electronic structure theory, QM/MM simulations, and/or MD simulations.
• Experience with building machine learning models in a biochemical context.
• Experience in coding and scripting (e.g., python, tcl)

Job Specific Qualifications

• Familiarity with at least one molecular dynamics package (e.g., NAMD , AMBER , CHARMM , GROMACS , etc.)
• Experience in working with biochemical/biophysical systems or processes.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with Python libraries for machine learning and data science.
• Experience with at least one molecular visualization package (e.g., VMD , PyMOL, UCSF Chimera, etc)
• Ability to work as an independent scientist.

Responsibilities

• Prepare biochemical systems in their native environments and perform equilibrium and non‑equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations, including free‑energy calculations for systems studied by Dr. Acharya’s group (ACompChemLab).
• Set up and perform electronic structure and multiscale QM/MM calculations. Build a database for machine learning models and develop models for electronic properties.
• Perform network analysis and build machine learning models relevant for allosteric processes.
• Provide technical help to other students and prepare presentations
• Write and publish peer‑reviewed research papers and assist Dr. Acharya, as required.
• Travel and present research at conferences, as appropriate.

Physical Requirements

Not Applicable

Tools/Equipment

Not Applicable

About Syracuse University

Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.

About the Syracuse area

Syracuse is a medium‑sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro‑area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.

EEO Statement

Syracuse University is an equal‑opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.

Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans

Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military‑connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class‑leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post‑9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.

Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community

Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.