Postdoctoral Fellow - Structural Immunology

Ruan Laboratory, Department of Immunology, UConn Health, Farmington, Connecticut

A fully funded Postdoctoral Fellow position in Structural Immunology is available in the laboratory of Dr. Jianbin Ruan at UConn Health.

Our research broadly focuses on programmed cell death, innate immune responses, and host-pathogen interactions, with an emphasis on the molecular mechanisms that control immune signaling and membrane disruption. We combine protein biochemistry, cryo-electron microscopy, biophysics, and cell-based immunology to address these questions. Structural approaches are used together with biochemical and cellular experiments to understand mechanism rather than as an endpoint by themselves.

We are looking for a highly motivated and intellectually curious scientist who is interested in fundamental questions in immunology and cell death. Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in biochemistry, immunology, structural biology, biophysics, microbiology, or a related field.

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:

• Recombinant protein expression and purification
• Protein biochemistry and biochemical reconstitution
• Cryo-EM or X-ray crystallography
• Protein-lipid and membrane biochemistry
• Biophysical characterization of protein complexes
• Innate immunity, programmed cell death, or host-pathogen interactions

Prior cryo-EM experience is not required. Candidates with strong training in biochemistry, immunology, or related areas who are interested in developing expertise in cryo-EM and structural approaches are strongly encouraged to apply.

The postdoctoral fellow will have substantial freedom to develop research directions based on their interests. Our laboratory places strong emphasis on independent thinking, experimental design, data interpretation, scientific writing, and career development. Fellows will be encouraged to present their work at national and international meetings, apply for fellowships and career-development awards, and develop research ideas that can contribute to their future independent programs.

UConn Health provides a collaborative research environment with strong resources in immunology, molecular and structural biology, imaging, mass spectrometry, and high-performance computing.

The position is available immediately, with a flexible starting date. Salary and benefits will follow UConn Health and applicable NIH postdoctoral guidelines.

Informal inquiries are welcome.