Job Description

The Sobolevsky lab at Columbia University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scientist with experience in structural biology (preferably single-particle cryo-EM) and/or ion channel biophysics. Our lab studies structure and function of ion channels with particular emphasis on understanding structural bases of ion channel gating and regulation by small molecules and proteins. One class of our target ion channels is ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) that mediate the majority of excitatory neurotransmission in the brain and are implicated in nearly all aspects of nervous system development and function. Another class of our target ion channels is transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. TRP channels are a superfamily of tetrameric ion channels that respond to temperature, mechanical stress, and/or pungent chemicals, implicating these channels as molecular «sensors» of environmental cues. In addition, TRP channels play important roles in a wide variety of physiological processes, including calcium homeostasis, neurite outgrowth, and hormone secretion, and, similar to iGluRs, are implicated in a variety of human diseases and represent important drug targets. The lab combines structural techniques, including single-particle cryo-EM, with electrophysiology, fluorescent measurements, protein engineering, molecular biology, protein biochemistry, and kinetic modeling, to investigate the structure and function of iGluRs and TRP channels. We also collaborate with computational groups to run molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of our target ion channels. We aim to decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying ion channel function and provide molecular templates for structure-based drug design.

Columbia University offers a highly collaborative social and scientific environment as well as a competitive salary and benefits in a beautiful location in the City of New York.

The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.

Qualifications

Minimum qualifications: The successful candidate must have a PhD (or being in the process of completing it) in a relevant field with a demonstrated track record of productive research, and must be able to work both independently and as part of collaborative team.

Preferred qualifications: Cryo-EM / cryo-ET / ion channel function experience is highly desirable.

For more information regarding benefits, visit the link below:

https://research.columbia.edu/housing-and-benefits

Pay Transparency Disclosure

The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training. The above hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.