"Postdoctoral Research Associates"

Position Overview

The laboratory of Dr. Jiaoyang Jiang at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (UW-Madison) is seeking 3 fully funded Postdoctoral Research Associates. Successful candidates will join a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary team integrating structural biology, chemical biology, and cell biology to investigate glycosylation-regulated pathogenic mechanisms and explore new therapeutic opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications for All Positions

• PhD with 0-1 year of postdoctoral experience, strong motivation and experience in the relevant research area.
• At least one first-author research publication in a peer-reviewed, internationally recognized journal.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and thrive in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment.

Postdoc Position #1: Structural Biology (Cryo-EM, X-ray Crystallography)

The postdoc researcher will lead structural studies using cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography, and complementary integrative approaches to understand protein complexes involved in glycosylation-associated biological and disease processes. This position offers access to state-of-the-art facilities and close collaborations with chemical and cell biologists to connect structural insights to functional mechanisms and drug discovery opportunities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Expertise in protein purification and at least one structural technique (e.g., cryo-EM, X-ray crystallography).
• PhD in structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or related fields.

Postdoc Position #2: Chemical Biology (Small-Molecule & Peptide Modulator Development)

We seek a postdoc researcher to design and synthesize small-molecule and peptide modulators to probe glycosylation functions in cellular and disease systems. The candidate will apply approaches like structure-based rational design, virtual screening, organic/peptide synthesis, medicinal chemistry, and molecular modeling to identify and optimize bioactive molecules. The position includes close collaboration with structural biologists and cell biologists to inform design strategies and evaluate molecules in biochemical assays, cell-based studies, and animal models. This role is ideal for candidates interested in integrating chemistry and biology toward therapeutic discovery.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in chemical and/or peptide synthesis, structure-based rational design, and probe development.
• PhD in chemical biology, organic synthesis, medicinal chemistry, or related fields.

Postdoc Position #3: Cell Biology / Quantitative Proteomics

The postdoc researcher will investigate glycosylation regulatory mechanisms in biological and disease contexts and identify new potential drug targets. The successful applicant will lead projects involving pathway mapping, mechanistic studies, and uncovering glycosylation-dependent vulnerabilities through proteomics and cellular assays.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in mammalian cell culture, post-translational modifications, quantitative proteomics, biochemistry, and imaging.
• PhD in cell biology, proteomics, or related fields.

Application Instructions

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. To apply, email the following materials to Dr. Jiang at jiaoyang.jiang@wisc.edu

• CV
• Cover letter summarizing research experience and interests
• Contact information for three references