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Postdoctoral Researchers — Zhou Lab

Buck Institute


Job Location:

Novato, CA - USA

Yearly Salary: USD 73760 - 81440
Posted: 29 September 2026 (30 days ago)
Application Deadline: 27 December 2026
Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Protein Biochemistry and IDR Structural Biology

POSITION SUMMARY
The Zhou Lab at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging is seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Researchers to join a multidisciplinary research program focused on the structural and functional biology of intrinsically disordered proteins and regions (IDPs/IDRs).

Successful candidates will contribute to a collaborative research program aimed at understanding how sequence mutation post-translational modification binding partners and environmental conditions reshape IDR conformational ensembles. The project integrates protein biochemistry with emerging structural and biophysical technologies computational modeling and large-scale interactome measurements.

Postdoctoral Researchers will work closely with Research Associates computational scientists and external collaborators to generate and characterize IDR proteins for structural and interaction measurements.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and optimize purification and sample-preparation workflows suitable for IDR-containing proteins for measurements including single-molecule profiling HDX-MS mass spectrometry and other structural/biophysical assays.
  • Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of purified proteins and assess sample quality stability oligomeric state and conformational behavior.
  • Develop and perform in vitro assays examining IDR interactions condensation aggregation and responses to candidate binders or small molecules.
  • Work with computational team members to interpret experimental results in the context of predicted conformational ensembles.
  • Maintain rigorous experimental records and contribute to milestone reports manuscripts presentations and publications.
  • Help mentor research associates and junior laboratory members involved in the project.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry molecular biology structural biology chemical biology biophysics protein science or a related discipline.
  • Strong hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression purification and biochemical characterization.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot experimental workflows.
  • Strong quantitative and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Prior experience purifying and handling intrinsically disordered proteins or IDR-containing proteins is strongly preferred.
  • Experience working with aggregation-prone phase-separating or structurally heterogeneous proteins.
  • Experience with protein interaction assays protein aggregation/condensation assays SEC chromatography native PAGE DLS mass spectrometry sample preparation or related biophysical approaches.
  • Familiarity with some of the structural methods such as mass spectrometry metabolomics HDX-MS cryo-EM NMR single-molecule measurements or molecular-dynamics-informed experimental design.
This position is particularly well suited for a scientist interested in working at the interface of protein biochemistry structural biology proteomics/metabolomics and computational modeling.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • $73760 - $81440 annual salary depending on skills and experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage paid time off paid parental leave 401(k) employer contribution and a student debt repayment option.
ABOUT THE BUCK
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is the first independent biomedical research institute in the United States devoted solely to research on aging. Located in Novato California the Buck brings together scientists across multiple disciplines to study the mechanisms of aging and age-related disease to help people live better longer.

The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the diversity and excellence of our community.

TO APPLY
Please submit online:
  • A curriculum vitae or resume
  • A cover letter addressing your past research experience plans and expectations for working in the lab
  • Any relevant publications projects or code.

Required Experience:

Manager


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