Postdoctoral Researcher Positions in Structural Biology / Biochemistry and Cell Biology

Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati ranks among the nation’s best urban public research universities. Home to more than 53,600 students, 12,000 faculty and staff, and over 360,000 living alumni, UC combines research prowess with a physical setting The New York Times has called “the most ambitious campus design program in the country.” UC's momentum includes anchoring the Cincinnati Innovation District, the oldest cooperative education (co-op) program in the country, an academic health system, and membership in the Big 12 Conference. The university contributes $10.6 billion in economic impact to the city and $22.7 billion to the state of Ohio.

About the role

Two postdoctoral researcher positions are available in the Joiner Lab at the University of Cincinnati (www.thejoinerlab.com). We seek highly motivated candidates with expertise in either structural biology/biochemistry or cell/molecular biology to pursue independent and collaborative research addressing fundamental questions related to:

• the regulation of small GTPases in organelle homeostasis and neurodegenerative disease, and
• the production of methane by anaerobic methanogens.

Our laboratory integrates biochemical, structural, and cell-based approaches and maintains a highly collaborative research environment that values mentorship, intellectual exchange, and professional development. The lab is committed to mentoring postdoctoral researchers as they develop scientific independence and prepare for career paths. Postdocs will receive regular feedback, structured mentoring, and opportunities to build skills in experimental design, communication, and leadership. We expect active participation in collaborations, manuscript preparation, grant and fellowship applications, and the mentoring of junior trainees.

These are full-time positions, each initially funded for 1–2 years, with the possibility of renewal contingent on performance and funding availability. Postdoctoral researchers will have access to state-of-the-art core facilities and institutional resources supporting professional development. This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.

Responsibilities

• Gather and analyze data and develop new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepare data summaries, reports, manuscripts, and presentations of research results.
• Participate/assist in manuscript writing for publication in scientific journals and/or presentation; may assist in grant writing.
• Keep informed of developments in field to maintain and enhance professional expertise.
• Lab maintenance, including equipment maintenance and ordering of supplies, as needed.
• Teach techniques to others, train, and mentor junior research staff.

Requirements

Position 1: Structural Biology / Biochemistry Research Focus

This position will focus on illuminating the structural mechanics of these systems by using protein biochemistry, in vitro reconstitution, and structural biology approaches.

• PhD in Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biophysics, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience in protein expression and purification.
• Strong experimental design, data analysis, and problem-solving skills.

Position 2: Cell/Molecular Biology Research Focus

This position will focus on investigating cellular mechanisms of these systems using gene editing, fluorescence microscopy, and functional cell-based assays.

• PhD in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline.
• Strong experience with cell culture and cell-based assays.
• Ability to independently design, execute, and interpret experiments.

Required Education: Doctoral Degree in the appropriate field or discipline, or the recognized terminal degree.

Preferred Qualifications

Position 1: Structural Biology / Biochemistry

• Experience with cryo-electron microscopy, including sample preparation and/or data processing pipelines.
• Experience developing and performing in vitro biochemical or biophysical assays.
• Familiarity with structure–function analysis of proteins or protein complexes.

Position 2: Cell/Molecular Biology

• Experience with gene editing approaches (e.g., CRISPR/Cas-based methods).
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy, including live-cell or quantitative imaging.
• Familiarity with image analysis and data quantification workflows.

Benefits

UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. Eligibility may vary by position and FTE status. Highlights include:

• Comprehensive Tuition Remission: UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.
• Robust Retirement Plans: As a UC employee, you won’t contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you’ll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 14–18% of your salary based on position.
• Real Work-Life Balance: UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including:
  • Vacation and sick time
  • 11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)
  • 6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents
• Additional Benefits Include:
  • Competitive salary based on experience
  • Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription)
  • Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs
  • Professional development & mentorship opportunities