Post-Doctoral Fellow

Job Summary:

The Zyla Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics is seeking a highly motivated Post-Doctoral Fellow to join a newly established research program focused on the structural dynamics of molecular machines. This is an exciting opportunity to help shape the scientific direction of a growing lab at the interface of structural biology, biophysics, and virology, while contributing to cutting-edge research with broad implications for human health and therapeutic design.

The Post-Doctoral Fellow will lead independent projects exploring transient and dynamic protein states using techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy, tomography, kinetic assays, and computational analysis. Day-to-day work will include experimental design, data collection and interpretation, close collaboration with the PI and lab members, and mentoring junior researchers. This role offers substantial intellectual freedom, opportunities for publication and grant development, and direct impact on the department's research mission.

Key Responsibilities:

* Design and lead independent research projects aligned with the lab's focus on structural dynamics and molecular mechanisms

* Apply and further develop expertise in cryo-EM, cryo-ET, biophysical assays, or complementary computational approaches

* Analyze, interpret, and synthesize complex datasets into clear scientific conclusions

* Mentor graduate students, research services professionals, and trainees in experimental and analytical techniques

* Contribute to manuscript preparation, grant applications, and scientific presentations

* Collaborate within the lab and with departmental, campus, and external research partners

* Support the establishment of best practices for reproducible and rigorous research in a new lab environment

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

Our department conducts research across a wide biological scale for fundamental scientific understanding with applications to many disease contexts. The overarching goal is to reach a level of molecular insight that helps develop therapeutic approaches to disease.

As biochemists and molecular geneticists, we are amid an unprecedented time of discovery - our conception of the molecular biology of cells is going from the equivalent of grainy black-and-white to high-resolution technicolor. From deciphering the choreography of transcription complexes, chromosomes, and RNA molecules within cells to developing novel approaches to 3D molecular structure determination to understanding how viruses hijack a cell's machinery and alter its metabolome, the researchers in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BMG) are at the forefronts of their fields both conceptually and technologically.

Why work for the University?

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package. To see what benefits are available for Post-Doctoral Fellows, please visit:

* Payroll & Benefits Orientation for Post-Doctoral Fellows | University of Colorado (cu.edu)

* Post-Doctoral Benefits Guide

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

* PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Structural Biology, Virology, or a closely related field

* Demonstrated experience conducting independent research in a laboratory setting

* Experience with data analysis and interpretation

Preferred Qualifications:

* Expertise in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET), Tomography, or Kinetic Assays

* Experience mentoring or supervising students, research assistants, or junior trainees

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to manuscripts and presentations

* Ability to lead and troubleshoot research projects

* Experience analyzing complex experimental or computational datasets and synthesizing results into clear conclusions

* Ability to mentor junior researchers and collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment

* Ability to manage multiple projects, meet research deadlines, and contribute positively to a rigorous and inclusive lab culture

* Ability to plan and carry out experiments with minimal supervision

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. A letter of interest describing relevant job experiences as they relate to listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2. Curriculum vitae / Resume

3. Five professional references including name, address, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: Dawid Zyla, dawid.zyla@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

This position may be seeking multiple candidates. Positions will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and candidates may be contacted for interviews throughout the posting period. Upon candidate(s) selection, the posting will be closed, and no further applications will be accepted.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

$62,232 to $75,564

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.