Postdoctoral Research Associate – Molecular Microbiology Full-time NEW

Biochemist Position at López Lab

The López Lab at WashU is seeking a biochemist with robust experience in protein purification and/or RNA biology to join our multidisciplinary team. Our laboratory investigates the interaction of respiratory viruses with the host. The candidate will work on the key interaction of host sentinels proteins with viral RNA that leads to the onset of the antiviral response and determines the outcome of the infection.

Individuals who join this lab as a postdoctoral appointee will gain advanced research skills in virology, cell biology, imaging tools and molecular virology, among others. Members of the lab work as a team, supporting one another's individual projects. With multiple graduate and undergraduate members, postdoctoral appointees can gain valuable mentorship and leadership skills. Postdoctoral appointees are also encouraged to pursue independent funding and will work closely with Dr. Lopez to sharpen their grant writing skills.

Primary duties and responsibilities include:

1. Conducts high-quality research in host-virus interactions.
2. Performs protein purification and protein/RNA structural studies.
3. Collaborates with team members on multidisciplinary projects.
4. Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
5. Prepares and submits papers on research.
6. Assists in the design of research experiments.
7. Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
8. Conscientious discharge of their research responsibilities.
9. Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
10. Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
11. Engages in open and timely discussion with their mentor regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
12. Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
13. Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.

Working conditions include potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary range is base pay commensurate with experience.

Applicant special instructions:

• A cover letter outlining their research interest and qualifications.
• A detailed CV, including list of publications.
• Contact information for three recommendations.

Please note that only candidates who meet the essential qualifications in protein purification and/or RNA biology will be considered.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• Proven experience in protein purification and/or RNA biology is essential.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

For frequently asked questions about the application process, refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University's policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. Washington University is dedicated to building a community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.