Senior Scientist, Membrane Protein Biochemistry (Onsite - 2 Year Fixed Term)

About the role

The Rogala Laboratory at Stanford University School of Medicine and the Stanford Cancer Institute investigates metabolic cell signaling on biological membranes, focusing on the mTOR pathway, solute carrier (SLC) transporters, and metabolic enzymes. Our research integrates protein biochemistry, structural biology, and quantitative assay development to understand nutrient and metabolite sensing and transport at the molecular level.

Responsibilities

• Design research approaches for protein biochemistry and structural biology projects, including experimental strategy, execution, data analysis, and writing for publication.
• Develop new protocols and optimize existing approaches for challenging membrane protein targets.
• Perform complex laboratory experiments including protein expression, purification, biophysical characterization, and functional assays; maintain rigorous documentation.
• Analyze and interpret research data using original methods; make strategic decisions about experimental direction.
• Aid in research proposals and grant applications by generating preliminary data and contributing to experimental planning.
• Lead or participate in multidisciplinary collaborations across Stanford and with external partners.
• Prepare progress reports and contribute substantively to manuscript preparation; expected co-authorship on publications.
• Present research findings at scientific conferences.
• Propose new research directions based on emerging advances.
• Train and mentor graduate students and junior lab members on advanced techniques and scientific problem-solving.

Qualifications

• PhD in biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics, chemical biology, or related discipline.
• Track record of scientific productivity demonstrated by first-author or significant co-author publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Strongly Desired: Extensive hands-on experience with protein construct design, expression system optimization, and multi-step chromatography purification.
• Experience working with integral or peripheral membrane proteins, multi-subunit complexes, and protein engineering.
• Proven ability to design, develop, and validate quantitative assays, and experience with assay optimization, controls, and statistical validation.
• Working proficiency with molecular visualization and modeling tools, and ability to interpret structural data and design structure-guided experiments.
• Preferred (Highly Desirable But Not Essential): Experience with single-particle cryo-EM, developing protein binders, biophysical characterization, molecular dynamics simulation, and high-throughput assay implementation.
• Self-motivated with strong attention to detail, excellent scientific communication skills, and proven ability to mentor junior scientists.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field and two years relevant experience; or PhD in related science field.
• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• Expert level knowledge and skills in field of science related to research project.
• General computer skills, experience with databases and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Developing project management skills.