Postdoctoral Scientist Protein Biochemist - Carroll Lab

We are seeking a curious and experienced Postdoctoral Scientist who specializes in Protein Biochemistry to join the lab of Dr. Sean Carroll at the University of Maryland, College Park. The Carroll Lab explores the origin of novelty - one of the central questions of evolutionary biology - through the lens of the of the origin and evolution of snake venom toxins and their natural protein inhibitors found in venomous snakes, their prey, and predators. Informed by the fascinating natural history of these animals, the laboratory is pursuing fundamental questions about how new proteins and functions evolve using a combination of genomics, proteomics, protein and immunochemistry. More information on the work of Dr. Carroll can be found on his websites: http://biology.umd.edu/sean-carroll.html and http://seanbcarroll.com/

In this role, you will be engaged in the exploration of both basic and potentially translational questions about the evolution of snake venom toxins and their natural inhibitors. The position is best suited for someone who loves laboratory research, has a broad interest in and mastery of protein purification and analytical methods, and enjoys collaborating with, learning from, and teaching colleagues with a variety of backgrounds.

Dr. Sean Carroll is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigator. His lab receives financial support from HHMI [and funding from other non-federal sources].

Please submit a CV and a cover letter briefly describing:

1. Your most important scientific experiences and contributions; and

2. Your reasons for your interest in this position

What we provide:

• A collaborative and highly interdisciplinary environment.

• One-on-one mentorship relationship with the PI.

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

• The opportunity to learn new scientific approaches and to expand your knowledge and skills through access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment, and world-class collaborators.

What you'll do:

• Performs research and/or development in collaboration with others for laboratory projects.

• Uses technical and biological knowledge in the design and execution of experiments that contribute to project strategies.

• Makes detailed observations, analyzes data, and interprets results.

• Prepares technical reports, summaries, protocols, and analyses.

• Investigates, creates, and develops new methods and technologies for project advancement.

• Maintains a high level of professional expertise through familiarity with scientific literature.

• Participates in scientific conferences and contributes to scientific journals.

• Provides expert guidance to staff in the laboratory.

• Individuals will manage their own research project and share responsibility for the results of a project team.

• May supervise the activities of other staff within the laboratory

What you bring:

• Ph.D. degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or related scientific field.

• At least two years' experience post-Ph.D. working in a scientific laboratory.

Demonstrates working knowledge of principles and methodology of protein biochemistry including:

a) Protein purification strategies from complex mixtures .

b)Analytical methods for quantitation of protein activity and purity.

c) Proteomic methods for composition analysis (e.g. LC/MS).

d) Structure prediction (e.g. AlphaFold) and determination methods.

e) Enzymology

f) Working knowledge of genomics or immunochemistry a plus.

• Exercises independent judgment in developing methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

• Propensity to design and perform highly complex experiments with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints.

• Operational knowledge of advanced lab equipment.

• Ability to provide work and supervise directions to others.

• Ability to initiate and compose communications for various purposes in an appropriate style.

• Capacity to work successfully within a collaborative and collegial environment and foster this ability in others.

• Ability to review goals, analyze processes necessary to achieve those goals, and develop techniques and systems required to meet those goals.

• Explores new areas and seeks opportunities to increase skills and apply new knowledge to work.

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-LL1

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 equity 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