Postdoctoral Researcher Positions in Structural Biology / Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Job Overview

Two postdoctoral researcher positions are available in the Joiner Lab at the University of Cincinnati (www.thejoinerlab.com). We are seeking highly motivated candidates with expertise in either structural biology/biochemistry or cell/molecular biology to pursue independent and collaborative research addressing fundamental questions related to 1) the regulation of small GTPases in organelle homeostasis and neurodegenerative disease, and 2) the production of methane by anaerobic methanogens.

Our laboratory integrates biochemical, structural, and cell-based approaches and we strive to maintain a highly collaborative research environment that values mentorship, intellectual exchange, and the professional development of all lab members.

The lab is committed to mentoring postdoctoral researchers as they develop scientific independence and prepare for career paths. Postdocs will receive regular feedback, structured mentoring, and opportunities to build skills in experimental design, communication, and leadership. We expect active participation in collaborations, manuscript preparation, grant and fellowship applications, and the mentoring of junior trainees.

These are full-time positions, each initially funded for 1–2 years, with the possibility of renewal contingent on performance and funding availability. Postdoctoral researchers will have access to state-of-the-art core facilities and institutional resources supporting professional development.

This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Essential Functions

• Gather and analyze data and develop new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepare data summaries, reports, manuscripts and presentations of research results.
• Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or presentation; may assist in grant writing.
• Keep informed of developments in field to maintain and enhance professional expertise.
• Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering of supplies, as needed.
• Teach techniques to others, train, and mentor junior research staff.
• This job description can be changed at any time.

Minimum Requirements

Position 1: Structural Biology / Biochemistry

Research Focus

This position will focus on illuminating the structural mechanics of these systems by using protein biochemistry, in vitro reconstitution, and structural biology approaches.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, or a related discipline
• Extensive experience in protein expression and purification
• Strong experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cryo-electron microscopy, including sample preparation and/or data processing pipelines
• Experience developing and performing in vitro biochemical or biophysical assays
• Familiarity with structure–function analysis of proteins or protein complexes

Position 2: Cell/Molecular Biology

Research Focus

This position will focus on investigating cellular mechanisms of these systems using gene editing, fluorescence microscopy, and functional cell-based assays.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline
• Strong experience with cell culture and cell-based assays
• Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with gene editing approaches (e.g., CRISPR/Cas-based methods)
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy, including live-cell or quantitative imaging
• Familiarity with image analysis and data quantification workflows

Required Education

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

Required Trainings/Certifications

N/A

Required Experience

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

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit:

1. A brief statement describing:
   1. Specific interest in the Joiner lab
   2. Past research experience and technical skills
   3. Research interests broadly
   4. Career goals
2. A curriculum vitae
3. Contact information for 3 professional references

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the positions are filled.

Physical Requirements/Work Environment

• Office environment/no specific unusual physical or environmental demands.