Postdoctoral Research Associate - Structural Biology
Company: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital
Location: Memphis
Posted on: April 2, 2026
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Job Description:
A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the
lab of Tanja Mittag in the Department of Structural Biology.
Project Description: The Mittag laboratory invites applications for
a Postdoctoral Research Associate Position to work on the
biophysics of sequence–structure–function relationships of
intrinsically disordered protein regions (IDRs). IDRs use different
types of sequence-encoded grammars, and these are often tied to
their subcellular localization and the biological processes they
are involved in. We have extensively characterized how the
molecular grammar of prion-like low-complexity domains encode
conformational preferences and give rise to condensates with
specific emergent properties (e.g., Martin et al. Science 2020,
Bremer et al. Nat Chem 2022, Farag et al. Nat Commun 2023;
Alshareedah et al. Nat Physics 2024; Posey et al JACS 2024). In
this project, we will define sequence-encoded conformational
preferences, driving force for phase separation and emergent
properties of other types of IDR sequences. Position
Responsibilities: The successful candidate will help shape the
direction of the research and will use in vitro biophysical and
biochemical studies to characterize the conformational properties
of IDRs and the properties of the condensates they form. The
candidate will interface with trainees and staff scientists in the
Mittag lab, and with collaborators in a highly collaborative,
interdisciplinary environment that will support their career
development. Minimum Education and/or Training: The successful
candidate should have a Ph.D. in biophysics or a related
discipline. The candidate should demonstrate an academic record of
excellence, and a strong interest in the growing field of
biomolecular condensates. Special Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
Experience with quantitative biophysical techniques such as NMR
spectroscopy and/or small-angle X-ray scattering is required to
capitalize on the opportunities of this project. About the lab and
St. Jude: The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative
laboratory focused on elucidating the biophysics, biochemistry and
function of condensates in the Department of Structural Biology,
with access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and expertise in
the Department of Structural Biology and across the hospital. St.
Jude Children’s Research Hospital is a world-class research
institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic
diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute
(NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to
children. Our 300 faculty work across the spectrum of basic,
translational, clinical, and population science in a highly
collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel
laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the
National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune
Magazine’s “Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma” and
Glassdoor’s “Best Places to Work,” and is located in the heart of
Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic
American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture. We are in
pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals
poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to
top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at
St. Jude, you will have: A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial
Efficiency : Access to shared resources and facilities led by
expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology,
accelerates research productivity. Customized Professional and
Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance
professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for
success beyond their training. This includes access to grant
writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and
mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs,
professional development allowance, and so much more. Competitive
Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary
starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous
relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and
invest in talent. A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant
postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic
environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs
from all backgrounds. St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer No
Search Firms St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept
unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment
opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted
by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude
via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a
valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will
result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by
St. Jude.
Keywords: St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis , Postdoctoral Research Associate - Structural Biology, Science, Research & Development , Memphis, Tennessee
