Staff Scientist in Bacteriophage Molecular Evolution

The Murugan Laboratory at the University of Chicago is inviting applications for a Staff Scientist position to advance research in molecular evolution, bacteriophage biology, and biological physics.

The laboratory investigates the evolution of complex molecular machines using directed molecular evolution, high-throughput sequencing, and computational analysis, including modern machine learning (ML) approaches. Research primarily focuses on bacteriophages, Escherichia coli (E. coli), and yeast, combining experimental and theoretical methods to answer fundamental questions in biology.

The successful candidate will:

• Develop innovative high-throughput experimental assays.
• Conduct molecular evolution experiments using bacteriophages and microbial systems.
• Analyze experimental datasets using computational and machine learning techniques.
• Lead the preparation and publication of scientific manuscripts.
• Mentor graduate students in experimental and theoretical research.
• Collaborate with research staff to establish new scientific directions within the laboratory.
• Organize scientific seminars and early-career researcher talk series.
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and conferences.

Applicants should possess:

• A PhD in Physics, Biology, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Computational Biology, Bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Less than two years of relevant postdoctoral or research experience.
• Strong analytical and experimental research skills.
• Ideal candidates will demonstrate experience in one or more of the following areas:
• Bacteriophage research
• High-throughput sequencing
• Computational biology
• Machine learning for biological data analysis
• Molecular biology techniques
• Scientific manuscript writing
• Mentoring students and collaborative research