Post-Doctoral Fellow

Post-Doctoral Fellow

The Cui Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, is seeking a highly motivated and creative Post-Doctoral Fellow. This is a unique opportunity to be a founding member of a new research program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, helping to shape the scientific direction of a lab dedicated to uncovering the structural logic of cellular signaling.

The research in the lab centers on the structural logic of membrane-localized cellular signaling pathways, including mTORC1 and small GTPases. By employing high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and tomography (cryo-ET), we aim to capture the transient, high-order assemblies that trigger signaling in response to stress. In addition to protein-protein interactions, the lab explores the role of membrane dynamics and lipid environments in modulating signaling scaffolds.

We investigate how membrane-remodeling complexes and specific lipid compositions influence the spatial organization of the lysosomal surface. Our goal is to reconstitute these signaling events in vitro to determine how physical changes in the membrane bilayer coordinate with biochemical signals to control cell fate. This work bridges the gap between static structural snapshots and the fluid, dynamic nature of the cellular landscape, providing a holistic view of how metabolic sensors operate within their native membrane environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Research:
  Design and execute independent projects focusing on membrane-localized signaling complexes or membrane-remodeling complexes.
• Technical Innovation:
  Utilize and develop expertise in high-resolution cryo-EM, cryo-ET, and the reconstitution of membrane-associated signaling complexes.
• Data Analysis:
  Use computational tools (e.g., CryoSPARC, ChimeraX) to analyze and interpret complex structural data.
• Leadership:
  Help establish lab protocols and mentor graduate and undergraduate students as the lab grows.

Work Location:

Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Membrane biology, Structural Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.
• Experience with data analysis and interpretation

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in either membrane biology, protein purification, biochemical, biophysical assays, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), or cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET)
• Experience mentoring or supervising students, research assistants, or junior trainees

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to manuscripts and presentations
• Ability to lead and troubleshoot research projects
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet research deadlines, and contribute positively to a rigorous and inclusive lab culture
• Ability to plan and carry out experiments with minimal supervision

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

• Cover Letter describing relevant job experiences as they relate to the listed job qualifications and interest in the position
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Contact information for 3 references, including name, address, phone number, and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY .edu/cu-careers. Questions should be directed to:
Zhicheng Cui, zhicheng.cui. Screening of Applications Begins:
Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by May 12, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered. Anticipated Pay Range:
The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE: $62,232 to $75,564.