POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCHER – Molecular Biology – Mena Lab [Req#: 924037, Position#:130595]

Department of Molecular Biology, UT Southwestern Medical Center

The Mena Laboratory, led by Dr. Elijah Mena, seeks a Postdoctoral Researcher with structural biology expertise to study protein degradation in cancer and aging. Our newly established lab investigates fundamental aspects of the proteasome, protein aggregation, and the mechanisms by which protein degradation is disrupted in disease. We integrate traditional cell biology with high-throughput genetic screening and computational approaches, providing a cutting-edge environment for mechanistic discovery. We are seeking a candidate with experience in single-particle cryo–electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to lead projects focused on proteasome structure and protein degradation pathways.

Key Responsibilities:

·         Independent Research Leadership: Design, execute, and troubleshoot advanced research projects; perform rigorous data analysis; refine experimental strategies based on results.

·         Mentorship and Collaboration: Supervise and train graduate students and research staff; foster a collaborative lab and departmental environment.

·         Scientific Communication: Maintain thorough documentation of experimental results; contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing; present findings at seminars and conferences.

Why Join Us:

·         Lead innovative projects in a newly launched, well-funded lab at a top-tier research institution.

·         Collaborate across disciplines, integrating experimental biology, high-throughput screening, and computational approaches.

·         Access outstanding opportunities for professional growth, including mentorship, conference participation, and authorship.

·         UT Southwestern offers competitive benefits. For more information, visit: https://jobs.utsouthwestern.edu/benefits/

Qualifications:

·         Ph.D. and/or M.D. in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or a related field.

·         Demonstrated expertise in structural biology and biochemistry, as evidenced by publications in peer-reviewed journals.

·         Required skills: prior experience with single-particle cryo-EM.

·         Recommended skills:

o    Cryo-EM: sample preparation, data collection, image processing, map/model building.

o    Cell biology: core molecular and biochemical techniques, including molecular cloning, Western blotting, and cell culture.

o    Biochemistry: protein expression in bacterial, insect, or mammalian systems; protein purification using fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC); binding assays.

o    Computational skills: basic coding or experience with computational analysis, particularly cryo-EM data, AlphaFold, or Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) data.

·         Strong candidates who do not possess all preferred skills are still encouraged to apply.

To Apply:

Please submit a CV, a brief cover letter, and the contact information for at least two (2) references to elijah.mena@utsouthwestern.edu

UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community.  As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status.

This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code 51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information.

Appointment rank will be commensurate with academic accomplishment and experience. Consideration may be given to applicants seeking less than a full-time schedule.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/