Postdoctoral Researcher - Pharmacology and Toxicology

About the role

A postdoctoral fellowship is available in the Zhu Lab at MCW to investigate the molecular mechanisms of membrane protein complexes, including their oligomerization, trafficking and cell signaling, using advanced structural biology approaches. The successful candidate will lead an independent research project focused on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and related membrane proteins, examining how receptor function is regulated by ligands, interacting partners, and the cellular environment. This work will integrate cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), biochemical and cell biology assays, and computational modeling to elucidate mechanisms of cell signaling and inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies for human disease. The laboratory provides a rich, interdisciplinary environment with established platforms including bacterial, insect, and mammalian protein expression systems; cryo-EM workflows; biochemical and cell biology techniques; and computational biology tools. The postdoctoral fellow is strongly encouraged to apply for internal and external fellowship funding, including programs such as the MCW Cancer Center Postdoctoral and Clinical Fellowship Program and Postdoctoral Researcher Seed Grants. Continued support for this position will be based on annual performance review. Characteristics of a postdoctoral appointment: It is expected that postdocs at MCW, with the assistance of their supervisor, will: Transition to career independence through the development of professional skills that enable the postdoc to actively pursue a career of his/her own choosing. Be supervised by at least one senior scholar who actively promotes the postdoc's professional development. Establish an individual development plan (IDP) that incorporates equally the postdoc's career and training goals and the mentor's research goals. Pursue basic or translational projects so long as effort is focused primarily on research. Publish results of the postdoc's research and scholarship during their appointment. The postdoctoral appointment is temporary by nature, the aggregate amount of time spent as a postdoc is recommended to not exceed five years (not including family medical leave or maternity/paternity leave). As postdocs are important members of the host institution's community, appropriate levels of compensation, health care, and other benefits commensurate with their essential status should be afforded, independent of the postdoc's source of funding. Primary Responsibilities Design, plan, and execute independent research projects on GPCRs and cell signaling. Perform membrane protein expression, purification, and structural studies using cryo-EM and/or crystallography. Apply computational modeling and integrate structural, biochemical, and cell biology data. Analyze and interpret experimental data; develop and optimize methodologies. Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations of research findings. Participate in lab meetings and collaborate with team members. Assist in grant writing and fellowship applications. Mentor and train junior lab members as appropriate. Maintain laboratory organization, supplies, and experimental workflows. Knowledge - Skills - Abilities Required Knowledge: Structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics, cell biology, computational biology, or related biomedical sciences Protein expression and purification techniques Data analysis, statistics, and scientific writing Complex problem solving and critical thinking Preferred Skills and Abilities: Experience with cryo-EM single particle analysis and/or X-ray crystallography Familiarity with membrane protein biochemistry Computational modeling and structural analysis tools Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects