Postdoctoral Fellow – Chemistry & Biochemistry - Organic and Polymer Synthesis and Self-assembly

Brigham Young University•Provo, UT

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Hurst Lab at Brigham Young University seeks a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associate to develop new polymer-based protein mimics for encapsulating biologically relevant molecules. This full-time position is part of a laboratory start-up package with eligibility for medical benefits and is renewable annually for up to 2 years, based on performance and funding.

Requirements

Ph.D. is required.
Strong background in organic and/or polymer synthesis including air-free synthesis.
Strong communication skills and a demonstrated record of scientific productivity.
Experience with soft matter self-assembly.
Experience with cryogenic electron microscopy.
Experience with protein-based assays.
Demonstrated track record of interdisciplinary collaborations.
Experience in mentoring undergraduate or graduate students.
Must relocate and/or reside in Utah for the duration of employment.

Nice To Haves

A degree in Chemistry is preferred, with an emphasis on Organic Chemistry and/or Polymer Chemistry.
Related degrees also considered are other synthetic emphases, Biochemistry, or Chemical Biology.
Potentially collaborate with national laboratory personnel to collect small-angle X-ray scattering.

Responsibilities

Lead the synthesis of a wide library of cyclic carbonate monomers for ring-opening polymerization.
Evaluate the copolymerization of cyclic carbonates using NMR and GPC.
Study protein encapsulation and protein activity.
Perform cryogenic electron microscopy on polymer-protein samples to determine size and morphology.
Potentially collaborate with national laboratory personnel to collect small-angle X-ray scattering.
Mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers in the lab.
Prepare manuscripts for publication and present research at conferences.
Assist with grant writing and preparing progress reports.
Conduct independent, high-quality research aligned with the university goals.
Uphold high standards of integrity, scientific rigor, and reproducibility.
Maintain clear and organized notebooks, data, documentation, and regular reports.
Engage with co-workers and contribute to a positive, collaborative lab culture.
Represent BYU professionally in publications, presentations, and collaborations.