Postdoctoral Research Associate I

The primary functions of a postdoctoral scholar in the Thaker lab will be to design and execute research on understanding the structure/ function relationships in mitochondrial kinases in human disease. This includes conducting experiments to elucidate how these proteins and their structural features influence their functional roles within mitochondria and contribute to disease pathogenesis. The scholar will also analyze data, interpret results, assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in acquiring funding, train students and work collaboratively, and apply for independent funding.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, vision, and life insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here.

The successful candidate will lead interdisciplinary research on the function and regulation of kinases at the intersection of metabolism and signaling.

In addition to performing interdisciplinary biochemistry and
structural biology research, the scholar will be expected to co-author
findings, assist with grant proposals, and mentor students.

Designing and Executing Research Projects (50%):
1. Conduct independent research on the structural biology of kinases and mitochondrial proteins using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and other biochemical techniques.
2. Design and perform experiments to investigate the structure-function relationships of membrane protein complexes.
3. Analyze and interpret molecular, biochemical, cellular, and cryo-EM data.

Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Publication (30%): Analyze experimental data in a timely manner using statistically rigorous methods, interpret results, and develop insights into how structural features of mitochondrial kinases influence their function and contribute to disease mechanisms. The scholar will also be expected to write up their results into manuscripts in collaboration with the PI and other contributing authors for publication in peer-reviewed journals to disseminate research outcomes and
contribute to the scientific community.

Funding Acquisition and Grant Writing (10%): The scholar will assist the Principal Investigator (PI) in data generation and figure preparation for grant proposals. The Scholar will also be encouraged to apply for independent funding to support their research projects.

Training and Mentorship (10%): Train and mentor graduate students and research assistants, providing guidance on experimental techniques, data analysis, and overall research methodologies.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• The candidate should be able to independently design and execute biochemical/biophysical methods and work collaboratively within a team to meet research and publication goals.
• Strong communication skills.

• Postdoctoral Scholar with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry or a related field upon hire and at least two years of relevant
  experience in the areas of protein biochemistry, cellular/cancer biology, and/or microscopy.

• A record of successful publication of first author research are required.

• Experience in membrane protein biochemistry andvstructural biology are preferred.