Postdoctoral Scientist - Aydogan Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute • Columbia, SC

8d • $70,000 - $80,500 • Onsite

About The Position

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to join Dr. Mustafa Aydogan’s lab team at Columbia University in New York City. The Aydogan lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern time control in animal development and developmental metabolism, with a focus on autonomous clocks. This position is expected to begin after October 1, 2025. The Postdoctoral Scientist will collaborate with Dr. Halil Aydin’s lab at New York University to dissect the molecular basis of a cellular clock governing the onset of cytoplasmic division (cytokinesis) independently of the nucleus and mitotic CDK/Cyclin complexes. This role requires a multi-disciplinary approach integrating biochemistry, biophysics, and cell biology techniques, combined with structure determination by Cryo-EM. The ideal candidate is a passionate, creative, and collaborative biochemist eager for professional training and scientific discovery.

Requirements

• A PhD in the life sciences is required.
• Focus on biochemistry, particularly protein biochemistry, is preferred.
• Proven experience in independent research and strong wet lab skills, with the ability to design, execute, analyze, and publish your work.
• A strong publication record that showcases concrete research excellence, including at least one first author paper either published or in pre-print form from your PhD studies. This can also be with a co-first author, however you must be the leading first author.
• A self-motivated mindset with the persistence to explore innovative research directions and address challenging scientific problems
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle challenges creatively.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss findings clearly in diverse settings.
• A flexible and adaptive approach, willing to learn new techniques, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Meticulous approach to work with a high level of attention to detail.
• Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and congenial environment.
• Strong commitment to research integrity.

Nice To Haves

• Focus on biochemistry, particularly protein biochemistry, is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead a research project that focuses on protein biochemistry including cell fractionation, organelle and protein purification, in vitro / in vivo reconstitution, fluorescent live-microscopy, cell biology, and structural assays (including Cryo-EM) to discover the molecular basis of a biological clock.
• Develop new experimental approaches to advance your project and the lab’s overall research efforts.
• Mentor students and research assistants to strengthen your mentoring and lab leadership skills.
• Write scientific manuscripts describing research findings.
• Attend local and national meetings to present research findings, learn about the latest advances in the field, and develop a scientific network.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits
• Generous and stable research funding from HHMI
• Mentorship to help you thrive scientifically and prepare for the next step of your career.
• Opportunities to mentor the next generation of scientists.
• Opportunities to attend scientific workshops and conferences.
• Full access to HHMI’s on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars, led by members of our learning and organization development team.
• Retirement plans
• Time off
• A range of recognition and wellness programs

What This Job Offers

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