Postbaccalaureate Researcher - Chemistry​/Biochemistry

The Postbaccalaureate Researcher is responsible for leading an independent project to advance an ongoing research program developing novel bioluminescent enzymes for imaging preclinical models of cancer. The successful candidate will spearhead protein engineering workflows while serving as a mentor within a vibrant, undergraduate-only laboratory environment. Lab work for this project will include, but is not limited to, molecular cloning, bacterial cell culture, biochemistry assays, pipetting, autoclaving, coding, organic synthesis, NMR and IR spectroscopy, and computational data analysis.

This engagement is scheduled for one-year in duration for a post-baccalaureate term starting June 2026. This position is ideal for a recent college graduate seeking a "bridge year" to grow as a researcher and leader before applying to PhD, MD, or MD/PhD programs.

Reporting to the Assistant Professor of Integrated Sciences:
Chemistry, Colin Rathbun, the Postbaccalaureate Researcher works independently to perform the following essential duties and responsibilities:

• Lead an independent laboratory research project focused on the evolution and characterization of bioluminescent enzymes for imaging.
• Execute protein engineering workflows, including molecular design, library construction, and mutant testing.
• Synthesize polymer coatings for peptide-labeled quantum dots.
• Lead or contribute significantly to manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed journals and assist with grant reporting.
• Present research findings at a major national scientific conference (funding provided).
• Mentor and train undergraduate research assistants, facilitating a collaborative lab culture and providing guidance on experimental troubleshooting.
• Assist in lab management tasks such as inventory management, organizing group meetings, receiving and storing packages, etc.
• Mentor undergraduate research assistants representing a broad range of socioeconomic backgrounds, political opinions, genders, races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexual orientations, and religions.

Regular attendance is considered an essential job function; the inability to meet attendance requirements may preclude the employee from retaining employment.

• Take and follow directions.
• Work cooperatively with others.
• Receive and respond appropriately to constructive criticism.
• Display a positive attitude.
• Balance multiple tasks and priorities.
• Performs other essential duties and tasks specific to the position.

EDUCATION:

Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, Biology, or a related field, or any combination of education, training or experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability.

EXPERIENCE:

A minimum of 1-3 years of lab experience with experience working on an independent project is required. This can include, but is not limited to undergraduate research experience. Project leadership. Experience mentoring or tutoring undergraduate students is preferred.

Individual must possess knowledge, skills, and ability to be able to successfully perform the essential functions of the position, or be able to explain or demonstrate how the essential functions will be performed, with or without reasonable accommodation, using some other combination of knowledge skills and abilities.

• Technical Proficiency: EITHER demonstrated experience in PCR, molecular cloning, bacterial cell culture, and protein analysis (SDS‑PAGE/gel electrophoresis) OR experience in organic chemistry lab skills including basic chemical synthesis and spectroscopy (NMR, IR, MS).
• Technical Growth: A strong desire and capacity to learn advanced techniques including High‑Throughput Screening (HTS), synthetic biology techniques and the chemical tagging of enzymes with quantum dots.
• Experimental Design:
  Understanding of experimental design, especially the rigorous use of controls.
• Data & Analysis:
  Possesses ability to use (or interest in learning to use) computational data analysis tools such as Python.
• Scientific Communication:
  Demonstrated ability to write scientifically…