The Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, School of Medicine is seeking a
postdoctoral fellow with expertise in computational protein design, structural bioinformatics, or machine learning for molecular
engineering. The fellow will work closely with experimental researchers to design and optimize therapeutic proteins, nanobodies,
receptor-binding molecules, and imaging agents.
Key Responsibilities
- Apply protein structure prediction and
computational design methods to generate and prioritize candidate molecules. - Analyze protein-protein interactions and
sequence-structure-function relationships. - Integrate relevant biological datasets to inform target selection and molecular design
requirements. - Collaborate closely with experimental team members so that computational predictions are tested and experimental data
feed directly back into design. - Contribute computational and analytical support across the lab's broader research program as
needed. - Present findings at internal meetings and scientific conferences and prepare manuscripts for high-impact
journals. - Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative lab environment.
Qualifications
- PhD in Computational Biology, Bioinformatics, Biophysics, Chemistry, Computer Science, or a related field.
- Demonstrated
experience with modern protein structure prediction and design tools, including AlphaFold2/AlphaFold3, Boltz, or Chai-1 for structure and
complex prediction; RFdiffusion, ProteinMPNN, or Rosetta for design and inverse folding; and ESM-family or other protein language
models. - Proficiency in Python and scientific computing is expected.
- Experience with molecular dynamics simulation (GROMACS,
OpenMM, or AMBER) and structural analysis of protein-ligand interactions. - Experience analyzing deep mutational scanning, directed
evolution, or other high-throughput sequencing datasets is desirable. - A track record of computational designs that were
experimentally validated, or prior experience working alongside a wet lab, is a strong plus. - Ability to work independently and
within a collaborative team; strong communication and writing skills.
Application: Interested candidates should send
their CV, a cover letter outlining their research experience, interest in this position and contact information for three references to Dr.
Nalinikanth Kotagiri at NKotagiri@som.umaryland.edu
