Research Specialist II - Orth Lab

6001 Forest Park Road, Dallas, TX,

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

The Orth Laboratory, led by HHMI Investigator Dr. Kim Orth at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, investigates the molecular mechanisms by which pathogenic bacteria manipulate host cell signaling and immune responses. The lab's research integrates microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and animal models to understand host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level — with the goal of gaining novel molecular insight into eukaryotic signaling systems.

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We are seeking an expert structural biologist to join the Orth Lab as a Research Specialist II at UT Southwestern Medical Center. This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished scientist with a strong publication record in CryoEM and/or X-ray crystallography to own independent research projects, serve as the lab's structural biology resource, and mentor other lab members. The ideal candidate brings a full structural biology toolbox, deep expertise in membrane proteins or larger molecular structures, and a passion for advancing research at the intersection of structural biology and molecular pathogenesis.

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive HHMI health and wellness benefits.
• Autonomy to pursue independent research projects within the scope of the lab's scientific focus.
• Opportunity to contribute to high-impact peer-reviewed publications.
• A highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment at UT Southwestern Medical Center.
• Access to outstanding core facilities and scientific resources including state-of-the-art structural biology equipment.
• Mentorship opportunities — serving as the lab's structural biology expert and resource for other scientists.

• Lead and execute independent structural biology research projects, including CryoEM and X-ray crystallography studies.
• Work with membrane proteins and larger molecular structures to advance the lab's research on host-pathogen interactions.
• Serve as the structural biology expert and resource for other lab members conducting structural work.
• Document structural molecules and maintain rigorous records of experimental data and methods.
• Prepare and contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts and publications as a key contributor.
• Mentor and train other lab members in structural biology techniques and workflows.
• Collaborate with postdocs, graduate students, and other scientists within and outside the lab.

• A PhD in Structural Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• Published CryoEM and/or X-ray crystallography studies — a strong publication record is required.
• A comprehensive structural biology toolbox with hands-on expertise across multiple structural techniques.
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills — ability to serve as a technical resource for the broader lab team.
• Self-directed and independent — able to own and drive research projects with minimal supervision.
• Experience working with membrane proteins or larger molecular structures — strongly preferred.
• Interest in and enthusiasm for mentoring junior lab members and graduate students.
• Familiarity with host-pathogen interactions or molecular pathogenesis research.