Postdoctoral Fellow

Whitman College • Walla Walla, WA

1d

About The Position

The Gerringer Lab at Whitman College is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to study physiological adaptations to high hydrostatic pressures in deep-sea fishes. The lab explores the physiology and ecology of deep-sea animals from molecular to organismal scales. Working with Dr. Gerringer, the Fellow will investigate how high pressure and cold temperatures have influenced the evolution of proteins and enzymes in the deep ocean. The project will use small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) to compare the structural biochemistry of key biomolecules from fishes living across different habitat pressures and temperatures, contributing to understanding of life in the deep ocean and the interacting effects of temperature and pressure on biological systems. The position focuses on the structural biochemistry portion of the grant and offers opportunities to conduct research and develop teaching skills in a collaborative and affirming environment.

The initial appointment will run through July 2027, with the possibility of renewal depending on the grant period. This is a 1.0 FTE position. The start date is flexible between November 20, 2026, and February 1, 2027. If research-ship fieldwork is unavailable, the Fellow can still fully engage with the position. The Fellow will receive support to present research at international conferences during the grant period. A written mentoring agreement will be co-developed to address career goals, needs for a safe and inclusive working environment, and support resources.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Biology, Marine Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field.
• Laboratory experience expressing and purifying proteins.
• Interest in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students.
• Enthusiasm for studying deep-sea adaptation and contributing to a collaborative and inclusive working environment.

Nice To Haves

• Ability to collect and analyze small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS/Bio-SAXS) data.

Responsibilities

• Study pressure adaptation in deep-sea fishes at the molecular level.
• Develop teaching skills through guest lectures and additional teaching opportunities based on the candidate’s interests.
• Mentor two undergraduate students conducting research related to the project.
• Support project data management in accordance with lab and NSF guidelines.
• Lead the writing of scientific manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Communicate progress and challenges at regular meetings with the PI and the full grant team.
• Participate in a research expedition to collect deep-sea fishes from the Mediterranean Sea, if fieldwork is available.
• Present research at international conferences with funding support during the grant period.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Basic life, accidental death and dismemberment, and long-term disability insurance, with the option to elect additional voluntary coverage.
• 403(b) defined contribution retirement plan with a matching contribution after eligibility requirements are met.
• Employee tuition waiver for two Whitman courses per semester.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Relocation stipend for new faculty moving expenses, based on relocation distance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree