Postdoctoral Scholar; Computational Proteomics​/Mass Spectrometry at NSF NCEMS

Postdoctoral Scholar (Computational Proteomics/Mass Spectrometry) at NSF NCEMS

The National Synthesis Center for Emergence in the Molecular and Cellular Sciences (NCEMS) at Pennsylvania State University seeks an outstanding scientist to fill a Postdoctoral Scholar position in Computational Proteomics and Mass Spectrometry. NCEMS is an NSF-funded interdisciplinary research center positioned at the interface of data science, molecular and cellular biology, and quantitative physical sciences. The Center provides leadership in the integration of diverse, publicly available datasets to gain insights into emergent phenomena in molecular and cellular biology.

In collaboration with faculty and research staff at NCEMS, the successful candidate will conduct original research involving proteomics and mass spectrometry data analysis, protein interactions, protein complexes, post‑translational modifications, structural proteomics, or systems‑level analysis of molecular and cellular biology. Research may involve large‑scale public proteomics datasets, data harmonization, cross‑study integration, quantitative proteomics, crosslinking mass spectrometry, interactomics, protein structure and function, molecular assemblies, or biological networks.

The scholar’s independent work may use, extend, or contribute to NCEMS Working Group data products, analytical tools, computational workflows, and methodological innovations. The scholar will also collaborate with NCEMS Working Groups where their expertise can help advance shared research goals, strengthen proteomics‑based discovery, and produce high‑impact scientific outputs.

This position is full time, on‑site at the Penn State University Park campus. Remote work is not permitted. It is a term appointment funded for one year from the date of hire with an excellent chance for renewal based upon mutual agreement.

A PhD in a relevant field is required. The candidate should possess a strong foundation in proteomics, mass spectrometry, protein biochemistry, quantitative biology, bioinformatics, or related analytical and computational approaches. Demonstrated ability to conduct research and produce scholarly outputs through publications in peer‑reviewed journals is essential. Experience analyzing, interpreting, or integrating mass spectrometry‑based proteomics data is required. Experience with mass spectrometry‑based workflows—such as bottom‑up proteomics, quantitative proteomics, targeted or untargeted proteomics, post‑translational modification analysis, crosslinking mass spectrometry, structural proteomics, and protein‑protein interaction analysis—is expected.

Expertise in computational analysis of proteomics data is highly desirable, as is experience with Python, R, or related scientific computing tools; proteomics software platforms; biological databases; data repositories; reproducible workflows; or large‑scale public proteomics datasets. Familiarity with public proteomics repositories and resources such as PRIDE, Proteome Xchange, MassIVE, Peptide Atlas, and Uni Prot is also desirable. Candidates must be independent self‑starters, have a strong work ethic, strong interpersonal and written communication skills, and the ability to work well in a collaborative team environment.

Applications must be submitted electronically in a single PDF and should include a cover letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV).

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. For more detailed information, please visit the Benefits Page and the Postdoctoral Benefits page.

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