"Post Doc Res Assoc (Sinha Lab)"

Job Summary

Postdoc with a primary duty consisting research-related work. Required to meet FLSA threshold to be paid on a salaried basis, otherwise employment record will convert to hourly.

Responsibilities

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Position Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to join our team investigating fundamental questions in ribosome biology. Our research is centered on understanding the mechanisms of protein synthesis and translational control in health and disease.

The primary focus of the lab is to elucidate how ribosomes act as sensors of cellular stress and to discover the ribosome-mediated quality control and signaling pathways that govern cell fate decisions. The dysregulation of these surveillance mechanisms is linked to ribosome dysfunction, loss of proteostasis, and human diseases, including cancer, neurodegeneration, and age-related disorders. To tackle these challenges, we employ a multidisciplinary toolkit including biochemistry, proteomics, genetics, and structural biology approaches.

We are looking for candidates who are excited to develop an independent research program within this framework. Several exciting projects are available, including:

• Identifying mechanisms that enable cells to restore proteostasis following acute translational stress.
• Elucidating the regulatory mechanisms of the Ribotoxic Stress Response.
• Defining the mechanisms of translational repression regulated by the Integrated Stress Response pathway in cancer.

Ideal candidates will have a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field and will be encouraged to integrate their own expertise and ideas to advance these research areas. Interested applicants should submit a CV and a cover letter detailing their research accomplishments, specific interest in our lab's focus, and how their skills align with our ongoing projects. To learn more about our research, please visit our lab website https://sinha.biochem.utah.edu/

Laboratory Setup

Work with the Principal Investigator (PI) to set up and organize the lab space. This is a unique opportunity to build a lab from the ground up and play an active role in shaping its culture.

Project development: Collaborate with the Principal Investigator (PI) to conceive and develop an original, independent research project aligned with the lab's focus.

Grant and manuscript writing: Pursue competitive independent and institutional research funding under the mentorship of the PI. Collaborate with PI to write scientific manuscripts outlining research findings. Proactively present research findings at scientific meetings.

Experimental execution: Design, perform, and analyze complex cell and molecular biology experiments with a high degree of independence and technical proficiency.

Methodology and innovation: Work with the PI to develop, optimize, and document novel experimental techniques and protocols to advance the lab's research goals.

Mentorship: Provide guidance and training to graduate and undergraduate students, and a willingness to participate in lab and departmental activities.

Data Management: Maintain a detailed, well-organized electronic laboratory notebook to ensure rigorous record-keeping of all experiments, results, and observations. Commitment to research integrity.

Problem-Solving: Proactively identify and troubleshoot experiments, applying analytical skills and prior experience to develop solutions.

Intellectual Contribution: Actively contribute to the scientific direction of the lab by integrating personal expertise and innovative ideas to advance research programs.

Minimum Qualifications

Preferences

Recent Ph.D. graduates in Life Sciences (Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or related fields) or candidates with 1-2 years of postdoctoral experience.

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN42943B

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Work Schedule Summary:

Department: 01502 - Department of Biochemistry

Location: Campus

Pay Rate Range: 65600 to 73136

Close Date: 11/27/2025

Open Until Filled:

To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/187932