Post-Doctoral Associate

This postdoctoral position will leverage our lab's broad expertise in protein engineering, biochemistry, biophysical approaches, and cell signaling to pursue independent projects examining intrinsically disordered regions (IDRs) in G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs). In addition, the candidate will have the opportunity to collaborate with labs with expertise in molecular modeling, data science and analytics and structural biology to further both their project and career goals. As we are broadly pursuing how to translate this work to drug discovery efforts through ongoing collaborations with pharma, this position will provide translational research opportunities.

Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) are desirable therapeutic targets in multifactorial diseases including metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. However, IDPs are difficult to drug using traditional approaches. We hold that creative, mechanism-driven basic science approaches will advance drug discovery efforts targeting IDPs.

Our group recently published a study detailing how the third intracellular loop (ICL3) of G protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), an IDP region, regulates intracellular signaling downstream of this receptor (Sadler et al, Nature, 2023). ICL3 acts as an allosteric site through its ensemble of conformational states that change based on the signaling state of the receptor. We are seeking a postdoctoral candidate who would engage on a screening effort to identify endogenous binding partners that target IDP regions in GPCRs involved in schizophrenia, diabetes, and cancer. Further, this individual will have the opportunity to engage in developing technologies to identify new IDP-targeted allosteric modulators.

Essential Duties:
70% - Conduct Research:
Candidate will use a combination of directed protein evolution, time-resolved FRET spectroscopy, GPCR molecular pharmacology, and protein design strategies to target G protein coupled receptors .

30% - Train Lab Staff, Write Scientific Manuscripts and Grant Applications, Work with the PI on technology commercialization opportunities through UMN, and Present at National Meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Ph.D., DDS, DVM, JD, MD or equivalent.

The ideal candidate will have extensive wet-bench biochemistry, cell biology and/or biophysics experience. Specific skills include standard molecular biology techniques, protein purification, and cell culture. Experience with flow cytometry is highly desirable. The candidate should have a passion for research and should be highly self-motivated to succeed in a supportive lab environment.

The Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Development encompasses a broad range of biological disciplines, including the storage and expression of information, its translation into the workings of individual cells, and the assembly of cells into tissues and organ systems.

Pay Range: $62,232 for new post-doc, up to $75,564 for year 7 (we follow NIH Stipend Levels); depending on education/qualifications/experience

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

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The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).