Postdoctoral Appointee – scale RNA production Structural Biology of RNA

Postdoctoral Appointee – Large scale RNA production for Structural Biology of RNA

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position in the Advanced Protein Characterization Facility (APCF) in the X-ray Science Division at Argonne National Laboratory. The selected candidate will participate in an RNA project for structural characterization of RNA by SAXS, X‑ray crystallography, and Cryo-EM.

The main role for the project is to produce RNA samples in large scale by using in vitro with T7 RNA polymerase, and subsequent purification required for SAXS, macromolecular crystallography, and Cryo‑EM. The work requires experience in molecular biology for basic cloning and protein expression (utilizing

E. coli), nucleic acid and protein purification, and the preparation of proteins needed during RNA production such as nucleases, phosphatases, RNase inhibitors, and RNA chaperones used for crystallization. Involvement in the research pertinent to specific RNA targets will be expected, along with presentation of findings to the community through publications and presentations.

• Ph.D. completed in the past 5 years or soon to be completed in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Structural Biology, Biotechnology, Protein Engineering, Microbiology, or a related field
• Strong molecular biology skills (cloning, vector design, transformation), protein and nucleic acid prep‑scale purification and analysis, and quantitative data analysis
• Excellent communication and teamwork capabilities, with a track record (or potential) in writing publications and presenting scientific results
• Ability to model Argonne’s core values of impact, safety, respect, integrity, and teamwork
• Interpersonal skills, oral and written communication skills, and ability to interact with people at all levels both within and outside the laboratory

• Knowledge of RNA biology
• Experience with RNA Cryo‑EM/crystallography/SAXS
• Prior experience with high‑throughput or computational protein design/screening techniques

As an equal employment opportunity employer, Argonne National Laboratory is committed to a safe and welcoming workplace that fosters collaborative scientific discovery and innovation. Argonne encourages everyone to apply for employment. Argonne is committed to nondiscrimination and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by law.