Postdoctoral Scientist: RNA Structure & Neurodegeneration

Emerging Scholars Council; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Michigan Bardwell lab is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join an in-person, cross-disciplinary team studying how RNA binding proteins influence RNA structure and neurodegenerative disease models. This role involves designing and executing experiments, supervising undergraduate researchers, applying NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution microscopy, and contributing to publications.

A Ph.D.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences, Genetics, Chemistry, Biophysics, or related field.
• Hands-on expertise in biochemistry, biophysical or cell biological research.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as cloning and PCR.
• Experience researching non-canonical RNA structures (e.g., G4-quadruplexes), chromatin organization, or neurodegenerative disease models.
• 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

Biochemistry

Biophysics

Molecular biology

PCR/cloning

RNA structure research

Independence / leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Molecular Biosciences/Genetics/Chemistry/Biophysics

Tools

NMR spectroscopy

High-resolution microscopy

Job description

The University of Michigan Bardwell lab is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join an in-person, cross-disciplinary team studying how RNA binding proteins influence RNA structure and neurodegenerative disease models. This role involves designing and executing experiments, supervising undergraduate researchers, applying NMR spectroscopy and high-resolution microscopy, and contributing to publications.

A Ph.D.