Post Doc Research Associate
About the role
The Bao Laboratory in the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biological Physics at the University of Virginia School of Medicine is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to support its research in membrane biology of cell communication (Bao et al., 2016, NSMB; Bao et al., 2018, Nature; Zhang et al. 2021, Nat Commun; Xiong et al., 2022 Cell; Shin et al. 2024 Nano Lett; Ren et al., 2025 Nat Commun). Using a combination of biochemical reconstitution, cell biology and structural approaches, the Bao Lab seeks to elucidate how membranes and membrane proteins mediate exocytosis, receptor signaling and cell death. Based on the findings from basic research, the lab is also interested in reprogramming membrane biology for therapeutic development against human disease. The Bao Lab strives to create a supportive environment that inspires learning, innovation, and passion for scientific discovery. People in the lab will have numerous opportunities to explore their own research interest. The Bao Lab emphasize rigorous training and open communication and works as a team to tackle fundamental challenges in membrane biology. The lab is located in the Membrane Biology Center at the University of Virginia, with ample access to well-equipped imaging, flow cytometry and cryogenic electron microscopy cores in the same building. Funded by NIH, AFAR, CHRB and UVA, we are looking for a highly motivated postdoc in the following areas: Structural membrane biology using cryoEM/ET. Unconventional protein secretion. Nanomedicine and gene delivery.
Responsibilities
- Conduct biochemical reconstitution, cell biology, and structural approaches to study membrane biology.
- Investigate how membranes and membrane proteins mediate exocytosis, receptor signaling, and cell death.
- Reprogram membrane biology for therapeutic development against human disease.
- Work on structural membrane biology using cryoEM/ET, unconventional protein secretion, nanomedicine, and gene delivery.
Requirements
- Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in biochemistry, structural biology, nanomedicine or cell biology (preferred).