Postdoctoral Scientist- Bardwell Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI); United States; On-site; USD 70,000 - 81,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare benefits

Career development support

Conference participation

Job summary

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Bardwell lab in Ann Arbor, MI, seeks a postdoctoral scientist to study RNA-binding proteins and non-canonical RNA structures using cell biology and NMR. The role includes designing experiments, mentoring undergraduates, and collaborating with Dr.

Bardwell in a fast-paced, discovery-driven environment. The position emphasizes independent research, translational insights, and opportunities to publish, present, and develop career pathways within HHMI's

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences, Genetics, Chemistry, Biophysics, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on expertise in biochemistry, and/or biophysical or cell biological research.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, and PCR.
• Prior experience researching non-canonical RNA structures (like G4-quadruplexes), chromatin organization, or neurodegenerative disease models.
• A strong sense of scientific independence, with the proven ability to manage and lead scientific projects autonomously.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on chromatin and RNA structure.
• Apply molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, and genotyping.
• Perform in vivo high-resolution microscopy to visualize protein and RNA localization.
• Apply structural biological approaches including NMR spectroscopy.
• Supervise undergraduate trainees and foster an open, collaborative lab culture.
• Document, analyze and present findings at internal meetings and in scientific publications.

Skills

Molecular biology techniques

RNA biology

Cell biology

Biophysics

Project leadership

Education

PhD in Molecular Biosciences/Genetics/Biophysics

Tools

PCR

Cloning

Genotyping

NMR spectroscopy

In vivo microscopy

Job description

Primary Work Address: 4544 MSRB II, Dock #6, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-0650 Current HHMI Employees, click here to apply via your Workday account. The Bardwell lab at the University of Michigan is studying how cellular factors regulate protein homeostasis, and RNA structure, and how defects in these processes contribute to neurodegenerative disease. Our research focuses on proteins implicated in neurological disorders, including SERF family microproteins, the microtubule-associated protein tau, and the ALS-linked RNA-binding protein TDP-43. In particular, the lab's work focuses on how ribonucleoproteins affect the formation of non-canonical RNA structures called G4-quadruplexes which are involved in chromatin structure, protein folding and in amyloid formation which is involved in neurological diseases. Our research integrates genetic, molecular, cellular biology and structural biophysics to inform both basic biology and future therapeutic applications. For more information, visit https://sites.lsa.umich.edu/bardwell-lab/

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent Postdoctoral Scientist to join our in-person, cross-disciplinary team. This role focuses on understanding the role of RNA binding proteins including microproteins using cell biological and NMR approaches. Projects aim to define how these proteins interact with RNA to affect its structure, how these interactions are disrupted in disease, and how those insights can guide translational research. The position involves designing and executing experiments, overseeing undergraduate researchers, and collaborating closely with Dr. Bardwell and other lab members in a friendly, fast-paced, and discovery-driven environment.

What We Provide

Close mentorship from Dr. Bardwell and opportunities to mentor junior trainees. A focus on career development, with support for producing publications. Expert training on scientific communication, including manuscript preparation and oral presentation of findings. Active guidance for both academic and industry career pathways — our research is highly applicable to both. Robust networking support, including conferences and collaboration opportunities. The opportunity to shape the direction of a high-impact lab working at the intersection of biophysics and genetics.

What You Will Do

• Lead independent research projects focused on chromatin and RNA structure.
• Apply molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, and genotyping.
• Perform in vivo high-resolution microscopy to visualize protein and RNA localization.
• Apply structural biological approaches including NMR spectroscopy.
• Supervise undergraduate trainees and foster an open, collaborative lab culture.
• Document, analyze and present findings at internal meetings and in scientific publications.

What You Bring

• A Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences, Genetics, Chemistry, Biophysics, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on expertise in biochemistry, and/or biophysical or cell biological research.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, and PCR.
• Prior experience researching non-canonical RNA structures (like G4-quadruplexes), chromatin organization, or neurodegenerative disease models.
• A strong sense of scientific independence, with the proven ability to manage and lead scientific projects autonomously.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Note

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Hiring Pay Range $70,000.00 - $80,500.00 Pay Type: Annual The posted range reflects HHMI’s good faith estimate of the anticipated hiring salary range for this role at the time of posting. Actual hiring compensation is determined by a candidate’s qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires. Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time.

To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations. At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work. What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. We work to promote a culture of inclusion in our work environments and across the greater scientific community. To find more information about us and the steps we’re taking to make HHMI a more inclusive organization, visit our About Us page.

Contact

Your best option for consideration in our career opportunities is to apply directly via our HHMI Careers site. There, you will learn more about HHMI and can find information about our available roles. Contact us at [e-mail] if you require an accommodation related to completing the job application. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations. Applicants have rights under federal employment laws. For more information about your rights as an applicant, please review these posters: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Know Your Rights, and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA).