Post Doctoral Scholar

The Ohio State University • Columbus, OH

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Xu Lab at the Center for Retrovirus Research in The Ohio State University is seeking a highly driven Postdoctoral Scholar (recent PhD) with demonstrated expertise in cryo-electron microscopy and/or X-ray crystallography and a strong publication record. Our research focuses on uncovering the molecular mechanisms governing glycoprotein conformational dynamics and antibody–antigen interactions in cancer and viral diseases, with the goal of advancing therapeutic and vaccine design. The successful candidate will lead structure-based studies of glycoproteins, antibodies, and their complexes, taking projects from protein production through high-resolution structure determination and mechanistic interpretation. This role requires a hands-on, detail-oriented scientist who can execute efficiently, troubleshoot independently, and consistently deliver high-quality, publication-ready results. The postdoc will work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment, contribute to high-impact manuscripts and grant efforts, and have the opportunity to develop independent research directions. We are looking for individuals with a strong work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and a proven track record of productivity who are eager to tackle challenging and impactful problems in structural biology and translational science.

Requirements

• Recent Ph.D. graduate in Structural Biology field.
• Demonstrated expertise in cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and/or X-ray crystallography, supported by a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Proven hands-on experience in recombinant protein expression and purification, and structural analysis of macromolecular complexes.
• Ability to work independently with a high level of rigor and responsibility, while contributing effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with a strong record of scientific productivity.

Nice To Haves

• Skillful with cryo-EM data processing and structural refinement software (e.g., cryoSPARC, RELION, Phenix, Coot).
• Expertise in computational modeling and structure-based protein engineering.
• Strong interest in AI-based protein design approaches.
• Prior research experience in glycoproteins and antibody–antigen interactions.
• Experience with membrane protein expression and purification, including reconstitution in nanodiscs (preferred but not required).

Responsibilities

• Lead structure-based studies of glycoproteins, antibodies, and their complexes, taking projects from protein production through high-resolution structure determination and mechanistic interpretation.
• Execute efficiently, troubleshoot independently, and consistently deliver high-quality, publication-ready results.
• Work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Contribute to high-impact manuscripts and grant efforts.
• Develop independent research directions.
• Tackle challenging and impactful problems in structural biology and translational science.

Benefits

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees