Postdoctoral Scholar – Protein Engineering and Bioconjugation for Cellular Force Microscopy

Berkeley Lab; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 84,336 - 94,020; Full time

Job summary

Berkeley Lab in California is seeking a Postdoctoral Scholar in Protein Engineering and Bioconjugation. This role involves developing nanoparticle probes for cellular force microscopy, optimizing delivery methods, and collaborating with a multidisciplinary team.

The ideal candidate will hold a Ph.D. in Biophysics or a related field, have expertise in protein design, and be prepared to publish high-impact research. The position is full-time with a competitive salary and the opportunity for renewal.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in a relevant field.
• Experience with protein design and molecular biology techniques.
• Knowledge of mutagenesis and protein engineering.

Responsibilities

• Engineer and express proteins for nanoparticle-protein hybrids.
• Develop bioconjugation methods for targeting ANPs.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in journals.

Skills

Protein design

Molecular cloning

Protein expression

Structural biology

Handling microbial cultures

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. in Biophysics, Chemistry, or related field

Job description

Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar – Protein Engineering and Bioconjugation for Cellular Force Microscopy within the Molecular Foundry division and in collaboration with the Joint Genome Institute (JGI). As part of a multidisciplinary team, the postdoc will develop protein‑based nanoparticle probes for use with an Infrared Force Microscope (IFM) capable of sensing and imaging biological forces within and between living systems with unprecedented sensitivity and spatial resolution.

This position will engineer proteins and develop bioconjugation methods for targeting our Avalanching Nanoparticles (ANPs, described in Nature 637, 70 and Nature 589, 230) for pioneering measurements of forces in and between cells. The postdoc will also optimize ANP surfaces and delivery methods to target ANP probes in microbial systems. The IFM will employ ANPs to measure intracellular and extracellular forces in live cells, including hydrostatic pressures and forces within biofilms.

We have a clear mission to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and play a supporting role in addressing global challenges. Your work will have a high level of impact within an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes.

You Will

• Engineer and express proteins for synthesis of nanoparticle‑protein hybrids.
• Engineer proteins with novel cross‑linking or other useful properties.
• Design and generate microbial strains for bioconjugation and ANP‑based imaging.
• Develop live‑cell bioconjugation and delivery methods.
• Perform data analysis, interpret experimental results, and generate figures that convey data and results.
• Stay current on recent research in the field by reading published literature.
• Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact journals.
• Collaborate and interact effectively with other team members, researchers, and scientists.
• Present work at national meetings and regular group meetings.
• Perform work in accordance with EH&S guidelines and regulations.
• Support and contribute to the Berkeley Lab Stewardship culture.
• Provide assistance to maintain laboratory equipment and instruments.

We Are Looking For

• Ph.D. degree in Biophysics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Bio/Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or relevant fields.
• Experience with protein design, molecular cloning, protein expression, or structural biology.
• Knowledge and demonstrated experience handling and cultivating microbial cultures.
• Knowledge of mutagenesis, bioconjugation, and protein engineering.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Demonstrated ability to successfully work in a dynamic, inclusive team environment.
• Demonstrated strong written and oral communication skills as documented by seminars or presentations.

Desired Skills/knowledge

• Experience with optical probes and their use in cellular microscopy.
• Experience in the design and implementation of imaging‑based experiments to answer molecular and systems‑wide biological questions.
• Experience imaging biofilms or related microbial systems.
• Experience with nanoparticles or nanoparticle delivery.

Required Application Materials

• CV
• Cover Letter describing applicant background and interest in the position
• Publication List

Additional Information

• Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by July 1, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
• Appointment type: This is a full‑time 2‑year postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than three years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post‑degree.
• Salary range: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes. The salary range for this position is $84,336 – $94,020. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates. Each step represents one full year of completed post‑Ph.D. postdoctoral experience.
• Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position.
• Work modality: Work will be primarily performed at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites (for more information click here).

Want to learn more about working at Berkeley Lab? Please visit: careers.lbl.gov

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: 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, are currently being investigated for misconduct, left a position during an investigation for alleged misconduct, or have filed an appeal with a previous employer.