Postdoctoral Fellow in Structural Biology and Enzyme Dynamics, College of Arts and Sciences

Job Overview

The McLeod Lab (www.mcleodlab.com) at the University of Cincinnati in the Department of Chemistry is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate enzyme structure, function, and dynamics using advanced structural biology techniques. Our lab focuses on understanding protein conformational landscapes and enzymatic mechanisms through integrative biophysical approaches.

In particular, a successful applicant will be using cutting-edge approaches unique to the McLeod lab, including multi-temperature (doi: 10.1016/j.str.2025.02.013) & time-resolved crystallography (MMQX; doi: 10.1107/S205225252500288X) on new enzyme systems. The overall goal is to characterize non-model systems using new methodological approaches, with emphasis on describing the temperature dependence of enzyme activity. This unique and highly marketable training will likely help candidates differentiate themselves from peers.

In addition to gaining experience in multi-temperature and time-resolved crystallography, applicants will have the opportunity to learn and use small-angle X-ray scattering, cryo-electron microscopy, and enzyme kinetics.

The applicant will be responsible for experimental design, structural data collection and analysis, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. X-ray scattering and diffraction experiments will be conducted remotely and/or on-site at national synchrotron facilities (for ex. Advanced Photon Source & Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source). Opportunities for mentoring students, grant & scholarship/fellowship writing, independent project development, manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and some classroom teaching will be available.

The University of Cincinnati provides state-of-the-art research facilities, including:

• A dedicated cryo-EM core facility featuring:
  • Thermo Talos L120C (120 kV TEM)
  • Thermo Glacios (200 kV TEM) with Falcon 4i detector
  • Vitrobot Mark IV for plunge freezing
• Centralized high-performance computing
• Custom time-resolved crystallography instrumentation
• CaryUV-VIS 3500 multicell spectrophotometer
• BioRad NGC fPLC
• Formulatrix NT8 crystal setting robot
• Other equipment and core facilities include: qPCR, SDS-PAGE, ITC, CD spectrometer, NMR/Mass spectroscopy core facilities

NOTE: Sponsorship for H-1 B visas is not available at this time.

Essential Functions

• Independently conduct research experiments with rigor
• Interpret data from biophysical and structural experiments
• Familiarize yourself with relevant literature to develop novel ideas for new research directions for both the lab and your future independent career
• Lead the production of manuscripts and presentations for which you will be the first author. Support the production of manuscripts, presentations, and reports for which you will be an author.
• Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in scientific methodology, presentations, & writing.
• Help maintain lab equipment and safety protocols

Required Education

Doctoral Degree in the appropriate field or discipline, or the recognized terminal degree

Required Experience

• In-depth knowledge of specialized field, process or discipline.
• May require experience with specialized software programs.

Additional Qualifications Considered

• Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field
• Extensive experience in protein expression and purification (E. coli)
• Extensive experience with at least X-ray crystallography or cryo-electron microscopy including sample preparation, data collection, and processing.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently
• Experience preparing manuscripts for peer review

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following to mcleodmw@ucmail.uc.edu:

1. A cover letter detailing research interests and relevant experience
2. A curriculum vitae
3. Contact information for three references

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

The expected start date is September 2026, but it is flexible.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

Office environment/no specific unusual physical or environmental demands.

Compensation and Benefits

UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. UC Benefits Eligibility may vary by position and FTE status. Highlights include:

Salary/Hourly Pay Rate Information: 56,697

Comprehensive Tuition Remission

UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.

Robust Retirement Plans

As a UC employee, you won’t contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you’ll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 14–18% of your salary based on position.

Real Work-Life Balance

UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including:

Vacation and sick time

11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)

6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents

Additional Benefits Include:

• Competitive salary of $56,697based on qualifications and experience
• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription)
• Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs
• Professional development & mentorship opportunities