The Pedley Research Group in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology in the Carver College of Medicine at the University of Iowa is seeking to hire a postdoctoral researcher in cellular biochemistry to advance our understanding of the cellular organization of metabolism and its regulation. Our laboratory studies the spatial and temporal regulation of the de novo purine biosynthesis through the lens of the purinosome, a dynamic biomolecular condensate that efficiently carries out this process. In this position, the postdoctoral researcher will further explore the relationship between the purinosome and nearby subcellular structures such as mitochondria and the endoplasmic reticulum. The candidate will be responsible for designing, generating, and interpreting experimental data, collaborating with others within the laboratory and externally, presenting their data at scientific meetings, drafting manuscripts, and assisting in the daily operations of the laboratory. The researcher will also be highly encouraged to seek extramural and/or intramural funding to support their innovative research endeavors.

Position Responsibilities

• Maintain cancer cells in a sterile BSL-2 environment, adhering to safety protocols


• Generate reporter-based stable cell lines by lentiviral and genome editing (e.g. CRISPR) methods


• Conduct qualitative and advanced quantitative fluorescence microscopy analyses


• Isolate proteins and assemblies from cancer cells for proteomic evaluations


• Supervise and train junior lab members in biochemical and cellular techniques


• Perform routine literature searches and stay updated on relevant research through literature searches and field developments


• Complete work within specified time guidelines and readily discuss progress and troubleshooting efforts when needed


• Present research progress at lab meetings


• Assist in preparation of manuscripts by organizing data and preparing figures, written blurbs pertaining to methods and figures


• Maintain detailed experimental records in a laboratory notebook


• Contribute to ongoing experiments by suggesting new approaches or amendments to protocols


• Collaborate with a team of researchers at the University of Iowa, across the United States, and internationally


• Perform other assigned lab duties

Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular/cell biology, chemical biology, or related discipline. Prior postdoctoral experience is not necessary.

• Demonstrated publication record reflecting independent research contributions


• At least three years of experience in mammalian cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques


• Experience generating stable cell lines by viral transduction or genome editing strategies


• Experience with fluorescence microscopy and quantitative image analysis


• Strong written and oral communication skills

• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple concurrent projects


• Research background or extensive knowledge in cell metabolism


• Previously performed protein-protein interaction assays such as PLA, co-immunoprecipitation, and/or complementation assays


• Previously trained junior researchers