The Thawani Lab in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics at Columbia University is seeking a motivated postdoctoral research scientist to study the molecular mechanisms of retrotransposon insertion using cryo-electron microscopy, biochemistry, and functional assays. Our lab investigates how mobile genetic elements use nucleic-acid enzymes, ribonucleoprotein assemblies, and host DNA/RNA
substrates to integrate into genomes. Current projects focus on LINE-1 and R2-like retrotransposons, with an emphasis on target-primed reverse transcription, host-factor engagement, DNA/RNA substrate recognition, and the structural basis of retroelement specificity. The postdoctoral scientist will lead a funded project involving biochemical reconstitution and cryo-EM analysis of retrotransposon-associated
protein/RNA/DNA complexes. The project is well suited for a candidate with experience in structural biology, protein or RNP purification, nucleic-acid biochemistry, cryo-EM sample preparation, image processing, or mechanistic enzymology. Prior experience with retrotransposons is not required. The successful candidate will join a new and growing lab with strong mentorship, access to state-of-the-art cryo-EM and
structural biology resources at Columbia, and opportunities to shape a major project at an early stage. The postdoctoral scientist will be encouraged to develop scientific independence, present their work, apply for fellowships, mentor junior lab members, and build a strong foundation for their next career stage. Responsibilities: Express and purify proteins, RNPs, or nucleic-acid enzyme complexes.
Reconstitute protein/RNA/DNA assemblies for biochemical and structural studies. Prepare cryo-EM grids, screen samples, collect and process cryo-EM data. Design and perform biochemical assays to test mechanistic hypotheses. Analyze structural and biochemical data and integrate results into mechanistic models. Work collaboratively with ot
Summary from the source posting. Always confirm details on the institution's official career page.