Letts Lab Postdoctoral Researcher

The Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of California, Davis invites applications for one Postdoctoral Researcher in biochemistry and structural biology.

Position Description

A postdoctoral scholar position is available immediately in the lab of Dr. James Letts in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at UC Davis. The successful candidate will lead independent research projects focused on understanding the structure and molecular mechanism of plant mitochondrial respiratory complexes and supercomplexes using single particle cryo-EM as a major approach. Projects will entail organelle isolation, membrane protein purification and reconstitution, biochemical, biophysical, structural and spectroscopic assays and experiments.
Responsibilities:

Research (90%):

  • Design and carry out experiments using techniques including membrane protein purification, membrane protein reconstitution, activity assays and single particle cryogenic electron microscopy.
  • Collect, analyze, and present data in group meetings and at external conferences.
  • Maintain detailed experimental records and notes.
  • Work with the Principal Investigator to prepare high-quality peer-reviewed manuscripts and grant submissions to pursue funding opportunities.
  • Provide peer review and feedback on manuscripts and grants.

Lab Management (10%):

  • Provide technical support and mentoring for junior researchers.
  • Maintain lab stocks and databases.
  • Contribute to lab maintenance and organization.

Basic qualifications (required at time of application)

Graduate degree (PhD or equivalent) in biochemistry or structural biology with demonstrated expertise in biochemistry. Candidate must have experience in protein expression and purification. Candidate also must be able to keep a complete and detailed laboratory notebook of experimental procedures and data and to archive and document reagents and data for publications, grant proposals, and presentations. Solid organizational skills are a must. Prior experiences in tissue culture, structural biology, and/or lipid biology are a plus. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal, communication, and decision-making skills and the ability to work well both independently and as a part of a team.

Salary Range

$64,480 - $77,327, commensurate with experience

Position Available/Closing Date

For full consideration applications should be received by May 21, 2024. *recruitment will remain open until position filled

Term of Appointment

Initial appointment will be 100% (full time) for two-years, with renewal depending on performance

Apply

To apply, please use UC Davis Recruit

Qualified applicants should upload a cover letter, a research statement describing their research experience and skills, and a curriculum vitae. Documents must be submitted as PDF files. Applicants should also provide contact information for three references

Questions

Please direct questions to Dr. James Letts, jaletts@ucdavis.edu