RESEARCH SCIENTIST SENIOR

Position Summary:

A senior research scientist position is available in Dr. Hongjin Zheng's laboratory at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. The Zheng Laboratory investigates the structural and functional properties of disease-related membrane proteins from prokaryotes and eukaryotes, primarily focusing on characterizing these proteins using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), biochemistry, and cell biology. Our research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms of these proteins to identify novel binding molecules that regulate their physiological functions, advancing therapeutic development.

This position will support the lab's mission by driving high-impact structural biology projects, contributing expertise in cryo-EM and protein analysis, and accelerating our efforts to translate molecular insights into therapeutic strategies. General Responsibilities This scientist will play a critical role in advancing the lab's research on disease-related membrane proteins. This position involves leading independent research projects, collaborating with lab members, and contributing to the scientific direction of the group. The role requires experimental expertise, data analysis, and communication skills to produce high-quality results that align with the lab's goals.

A Research Scientist Senior oversees substantial research projects, providing expert guidance and ensuring rigorous scientific standards. This role involves a broader scope of responsibility, including project management, cross-functional collaboration, and securing funding through grant proposals. Senior scientists exercise considerable discretion in research decisions and play a pivotal role in shaping the research agenda. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research participant contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform molecular cloning (e.g., primer design, plasmid construction, site-directed mutagenesis) to generate constructs for recombinant protein expression in bacterial, yeast, baculovirus, or mammalian systems.
• Overexpress and purify membrane proteins using affinity chromatography and FPLC systems, optimizing conditions for structural and functional studies.
• Characterize protein-protein interactions and binding kinetics using techniques.
• Design and conduct functional assays to validate molecular mechanisms of purified proteins.
• Execute structural studies of membrane proteins using single-particle cryo-EM, including sample preparation, grid screening, data collection, and 3D reconstruction.
• Process and interpret high-resolution cryo-EM datasets, integrating structural insights with biochemical and cellular data.
• Draft manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and present findings at national and international conferences.
• Supervise and train junior lab members, including graduate students and technicians, in cryo-EM, protein purification, and related techniques.
• Contribute to lab management, ensuring compliance with university safety and research regulations.

Salary Range: $ 81,525 - $132,475

Qualifications

Doctorate degree in a related field and three (3) years of related experience OR Master's degree in a related field and five (5) years of related experience OR Bachelor's degree in a related field and seven (7) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferred:

• Prior experience with prokaryotic and eukaryotic membrane protein systems, such as transporters or channels
• Familiarity with cell biology techniques to complement structural studies, such as yeast surface display or mammalian cell assays.
• Experience in lab management, including overseeing operations and training personnel.
• Previous work on disease-related proteins with therapeutic implications.

Key Skills

• Advanced proficiency in cryo-EM workflow, from sample preparation to structure determination.
• Expertise in protein purification and analysis.
• Skilled in molecular cloning and gene library construction for protein engineering.
• Competence in biophysical techniques for binding studies.
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills, particularly with structural and functional datasets.
• Ability to lead projects, mentor trainees, and collaborate effectively within a team.
• Exceptional documentation and organizational skills for research and lab operations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, evidenced by publications and presentations.

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