Post Doctoral Associate Researcher

Post Doctoral Associate Researcher

University of Pittsburgh School of Pharmacy

Postdoctoral Associate Position Available

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Postdoctoral Associate (PhD or equivalent) to join our dynamic computational and experimental research team (http://www.cbligand.org/XieLab) to advance our CELL-published technology of 3D Cryo-EM Structure of Human CB2-Gi Signaling Complex (Cell, 2020, PMID:32004460) and Deep Learning Molecular Generative AI Modeling (Cells, 2022, PMID: 35269537) for drug design discovery. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in molecular biology and a proven track record in computational and biophysical methods.

Qualifications:

• A Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in Molecular Biology, Antibody, Biophysics, Biostatistics, AI Data Science, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Significant research or working experience and app development are preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent and innovative research work.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, a detail-oriented investigation, and strong writing skills.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Molecular Biology Expertise: Proficiency in techniques such as cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, CRISPR-Cas9, and bioassay development is essential.
• Structural Biology: Experience in X-ray crystallography and/or Cryo-Electron Microscopy (Cryo-EM), including data collection and processing, is highly desirable.
• Cell Culture: Demonstrated experience working with cells at BSL2 or BSL2 levels. Familiarity with receptor binding affinity bioassays and cellular functional bioassays is advantageous.
• Protein Expression and Purification: Expertise in Baculovirus (sf9) and/or E. coli expression systems, as well as proficiency in IMAC, SEC, AKTA purification, and LC-MS/MS systems for producing functional proteins for bioassays and structural characterization.
• Research Focus: Research experience in small-molecule or antibody autophagy, cell fate decision-making, and cell signaling studies. Application of this knowledge to target cannabinoid CB2 receptor and nanobody/antibody, Squestosome-1/p62 and Ink4c/p18 in drug research projects for diseases such as GVHD, IBD, acute myeloid leukemia (AML), multiple myeloma (MM), kidney fibrosis, Alzheimer’s disease, hematopoietic stem cells, and osteoporosis.

Additional experience is desired: Expertise in Deep learning and algorithms, including Generative AI, Graph Neural Networks (GNN), Naive Bayes, etc, and specific data science research experience with Alzheimer's Disease and its comorbidities is preferred. Candidates with Web/mobile app development, data analytics, network information security, GUI design, proficiency in at least one object-oriented programming language (e.g., Java, C , or C#), and scripting language (e.g., Python, PHP) will also be considered.

• Independent Research: Proven ability to design and execute experiments and computation work independently, analyze and interpret data, and present findings professionally in both written and oral formats.
• Literature Review and Writing: Competence in performing literature searches, strong scientific writing (manuscripts and grant proposals), and meticulous record-keeping of research work.
• Collaboration and Communication: Strong verbal and interpersonal skills, with the ability to assist the PI and guide graduate students and other researchers in the lab.

Application Process:

Please submit your application (CV, cover letter, three references, and a summary of past research accomplishments and future research interests and plans) via the Pitt Talent Center at www.join.pitt.edu, requisition number 25002072.

Please submit your application (CV, cover letter, three references and a summary of past research accomplishments and future research interests and plans) via the Pitt Talent Center at www.join.pitt.edu, requisition number 25002072.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.