Postdoctoral Scientist - Ruta Lab

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Scientist with expertise in structural biology and membrane protein biochemistry to join a dynamic, cross-disciplinary team exploring how animals detect, perceive and respond to the chemical world. This position offers an exceptional opportunity for a structural biologist to broaden their research by connecting their molecular studies of the structure, function and evolution of sensory receptors to an understanding of the neural circuits they engage in a highly collaborative setting.

The Ruta Lab integrates structural biology, biochemistry, and functional recording techniques with advanced neuroscience methods to uncover how olfactory receptors detect odors and how this information is processed within neural circuits to drive behavior. Using the compact chemosensory system of Drosophila and other insects as a powerful model platform, the lab aims to develop an integrative understanding of how animals adaptively respond to their sensory world, from molecular detection to the neural algorithms of complex motor behaviors.

Backed by generous support from HHMI, the Gates Foundation and funding from other non-federal sources, the Ruta Lab offers access to state-of-the-art resources, a vibrant intellectual community, and numerous opportunities for professional development, including training in new techniques, structured mentorship, and leadership in collaborative projects. This is an ideal role for a Postdoctoral Scientist eager to make high-impact discoveries at the intersection of protein structure, function, and behavior.

More information about the lab's research and publications can be found by visiting: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/myncbi/vanessa.ruta.3/bibliography/public/

About the role:

In this role, you will join a highly collaborative team within the Lab to investigate the molecular logic of olfaction through detailed structure-function studies of insect olfactory receptors and analyses of their expression and organization in vivo. You will contribute to a multidisciplinary effort that includes membrane protein biochemistry (expression, purification, and analysis), in vivo and in vitro functional assays (such as cell-based calcium imaging, electrophysiology, and reconstituted liposome systems), and structural characterization (including single-particle cryo-EM, model building, and molecular docking and dynamics).

This is an ideal position for someone with a passion for scientific discovery, a drive to learn and advance new methods, and an interest in working at the interface of structural biology, sensory neuroscience, and chemical ecology. You will be encouraged to take ownership of your work, shape the direction of your project, and contribute both experimentally and conceptually to a vibrant, supportive research environment. Candidates should be excited to collaborate across disciplines and committed to growing professionally during their time in the lab.

Application Instructions:

Please include the following items as part of your application:

(1) A cover letter including thoughtful responses to the following questions:

• How have you contributed to advancing scientific understanding in your previous work?

• What scientific questions are you most excited to explore?

• How would pursuing these questions in our lab help launch you toward your future career goals?

• How do you see your skills, experience, and perspective synergizing with the ongoing work of the Ruta Lab?

(2) Please also provide a current curriculum vitae and the names and contact information for at least 3 references.

(3) PDFs of up to three most significant manuscripts.

What we provide:

• The opportunity to lead an ambitious interdisciplinary project, backed by exceptional personal and scientific support.

• A lab led by a PI who prioritizes creativity, independence, and personal growth, with dedicated, tailored mentorship to help you thrive scientifically and launch the next stage of your career.A collaborative, intellectually vibrant lab environment that values innovation, creativity, and cross-disciplinary contributions.

• Access to state-of-the-art resources, including cryo-electron microscopes capable of tomography, advanced in vivo imaging platforms and electrophysiology setups.

• Opportunities to learn new methods from other fields and integrate them into broader experimental frameworks.

• A culture that promotes curiosity, teamwork, and continuous growth within a world-renowned research institution.

What you will do:

Design and lead your own independent research project investigating the structural logic of how odors are detected, using diverse structural and functional techniques.

• Develop and implement new experimental approaches to advance the lab's multidisciplinary efforts.

• Analyze and clearly communicate results through written reports, figures, presentations, and impactful peer-reviewed publications.

• Engage with the scientific literature to inform experimental design and stay at the forefront of the field.

• Present your research at lab meetings, institutional seminars, and international scientific conferences.

• Collaborate with an exceptional team of neuroscientists, structural biologists, computational chemists, and biochemists.

• Contribute to mentoring students and junior researchers, and help foster an inclusive, curious, and supportive lab environment.

What you bring:

• Ph.D. in biochemistry, structural biology, biophysics or a related field, or a closely related field is required.

• A curiosity-driven approach to science, with a passion for exploring how sensory signals are detected and processed at multiple scales.

• Proven experience in independent research, with the ability to design, execute, and analyze complex experiments with precision.

• A collaborative mindset, with a track record of successful teamwork across diverse scientific disciplines.

• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle challenges creatively.

• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss findings clearly in diverse settings.

• A flexible and adaptive approach, willing to learn new techniques, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.

• A proactive and driven attitude, with the resilience to pursue novel research avenues and tackle ambitious scientific questions.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

#LI-JH1

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Compensation Range

Pay Type:

HHMI's salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer