Postdoctoral Scholar in Computational Biophysics

University of California - Merced; California (MO); On-site; USD 71,000 - 86,000; Full time

Job summary

The Dutagaci Lab at the University of California, Merced is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to work on an NIH-funded project focused on biomolecular simulations and machine learning applications in biological systems.

The Postdoctoral Scholar will conduct mentored research under the supervision of the PI and investigate transcription by studying the structure and dynamics of RNA polymerase to address mechanistic questions related to the roles of elongation factors and their connection to human

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Physics, or related fields.
• Experience in a Linux environment.
• Programming in Python, Perl, C, or Fortran.
• Experience with MD software such as CHARMM, OpenMM, NAMD, or GROMACS.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research in computational biophysics using standard and enhanced sampling molecular dynamics simulations and machine learning approaches.
• Participate in manuscript preparation and dissemination of findings through conferences and peer‑reviewed journals.
• Participate in professional development activities such as scientific conferences and meetings.
• Assist in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students under the supervision of the PI.

Skills

Linux

Python

Perl

C

Fortran

Molecular dynamics

Education

Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Physics, or related fields

Tools

CHARMM

OpenMM

NAMD

GROMACS

Job description

Position overview

Position title: Postdoctoral Scholar

Salary range: See Table 23 for the salary range for this position. A reasonable estimate for this position is $71,491 - $85,736

Percent time: 100

Anticipated start: October 15, 2026

Position duration: 2 years

Application Window

Open date: June 22, 2026

Most recent review date: Thursday, Sep 17, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Thursday, Oct 1, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Position description

The Dutagaci Lab at the University of California, Merced is seeking a postdoctoral scholar to work on an NIH-funded project (Project Number: R35GM163973) focused on biomolecular simulations and machine learning applications in biological systems. The Postdoctoral Scholar will conduct mentored research under the supervision of the PI and investigate transcription by studying the structure and dynamics of RNA polymerase to address mechanistic questions related to the roles of elongation factors and their connection to human diseases.

1. Conduct research in computational biophysics related to the project mentioned above using standard and enhanced sampling molecular dynamics simulations, and machine learning approaches.


2. Participate in manuscript preparation and dissemination of research findings through presentations at scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.


3. Participate in professional development activities such as scientific conferences and meetings.


4. Assist in mentoring graduate and undergraduate students under the supervision of the PI at Dutagaci Lab.

The position is available immediately. The initial appointment is for two years, with the possibility of extension for up to a total of five years, contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding.

Qualifications

• 1) Ph.D. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Physics, or related fields.


• 2) Experience working in a Linux environment.


• 3) Experience in one or more programming languages such as Python, Perl, C, or Fortran.


• 4) Experience in one or more molecular dynamics simulation software such as CHARMM, OpenMM, NAMD, or GROMACS.


• 5) A record of peer-reviewed research publications.

Preferred qualifications

1. Experience with machine learning and statistical analysis methods.


2. Graduate-level training in computational biophysics or physical chemistry.


3. Experience in biomolecular simulations.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.


• Cover Letter


• Authorization to Release Information Form - As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct. \"Misconduct\" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. Required Authorization of Information Release may be found at the linked page. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application.


• Statement of Teaching (Optional)

Reference requirements

• 3 required (contact information only)

Help contact: [e-mail]

About UC Merced

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct. \"Misconduct\" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer. Please complete, sign, and upload the required Authorization of Information Release to your application: Required Authorization of Information Release Form.

Candidates must possess valid authorization to work in the United States. UC Merced is not currently able to sponsor individuals residing outside the United States who would require a new H-1B visa for employment. Applicants who do not hold valid U.S. work authorization are presently ineligible for this position.

Additional links: UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy, the UC Anti-Discrimination Policy, and APM 035: Aff…

The University of California, Merced, is the newest of the University of California system's 10 campuses. Ranked as one of the best public universities in the nation by U.S. News and World Report and recently designated as an R1 institution by Carnegie, UC Merced is committed to innovation and excellence in research. With over 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students (Center of Institutional Effectiveness), UC Merced provides outstanding, inclusive educational opportunities to highly qualified students from the heart of California, the nation, and abroad. The campus has special connections to nearby Yosemite National Park; is on the cutting edge of sustainability in construction and design; and supports the economic development of Central California.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements. This includes the University of California Policy on Vaccination Programs.

Job location

Merced, CA