About this role
<p style="margin-right:0.0in;margin-left:0.0in;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"> </p> <p style="margin-right:0.0in;margin-left:0.0in;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif;color:#0070c0">Current UC employees must apply internally via <em>SuccessFactors</em> </span></strong></p> <p style="margin:0.0in;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif;line-height:115%"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Next Lives at the University of Cincinnati</span></strong></p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif;line-height:115%"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Founded in 1819, the University of Cincinnati ranks among the nation’s best urban public research universities. Home to more than 53,600 students, 12,000 faculty and staff, and over 360,000 living alumni, UC, a Carnegie 1 institution, combines research prowess with a physical setting The New York Times has called “the most ambitious campus design program in the country." UC's momentum has never been stronger as the anchor of the Cincinnati Innovation District, the oldest cooperative education (co-op) program in the country with students earning $94 million annually through paid experiences, an academic health system, and as a member of the Big 12 Conference. The university contributes $10.6 billion in economic impact to the city and $22.7 billion to the state of Ohio. At UC, next is all of us. Learn more at </span><a href="http://uc.edu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">uc.edu</span></a><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">. </span></p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">UC is a mission-driven organization where we are committed to student success and positively transforming the community through scholarship and service. We thrive on innovation, making an impact, and fostering an environment where staff and faculty are key contributors to UC’s success. </span></p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in;line-height:115%;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:'Times New Roman', serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"> </span></p><div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Job Overview</b></H2> </div><div><p>The McLeod Lab (<a href="http://www.mcleodlab.com">www.mcleodlab.com</a>) at the University of Cincinnati in the Department of Chemistry is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate enzyme structure, function, and dynamics using advanced structural biology techniques. Our lab focuses on understanding protein conformational landscapes and enzymatic mechanisms through integrative biophysical approaches.</p> <p> </p> <p>In particular, a successful applicant will be using cutting-edge approaches unique to the McLeod lab, including multi-temperature (doi: <a title="Persistent link using digital object identifier" href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.str.2025.02.013" target="_blank" rel="noopener">10.1016/j.str.2025.02.013</a>) & time-resolved crystallography (MMQX; doi: <a href="https://doi.org/10.1107/S205225252500288X">10.1107/S205225252500288X</a>) on new enzyme systems. The overall goal is to characterize non-model systems using new methodological approaches, with emphasis on describing the temperature dependence of enzyme activity. This unique and highly marketable training will likely help candidates differentiate themselves from peers.</p> <p> </p> <p>In addition to gaining experience in multi-temperature and time-resolved crystallography, applicants will have the opportunity to learn and use small-angle X-ray scattering, cryo-electron microscopy, and enzyme kinetics.</p> <p> </p> <p>The applicant will be responsible for experimental design, structural data collection and analysis, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. X-ray scattering and diffraction experiments will be conducted remotely and/or on-site at national synchrotron facilities (for ex. Advanced Photon Source & Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source). Opportunities for </p> <p>mentoring students, grant & scholarship/fellowship writing, independent project development, manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and some classroom teaching will be available.</p> <p> </p> <p>The University of Cincinnati provides state-of-the-art research facilities, including:</p> <ul type="disc"> <li>A dedicated cryo-EM core facility featuring:</li> <ul type="circle"> <li>Thermo Talos L120C (120 kV TEM)</li> <li>Thermo Glacios (200 kV TEM) with Falcon 4i detector</li> <li>Vitrobot Mark IV for plunge freezing</li> </ul> <li>Centralized high-performance computing</li> <li>Custom time-resolved crystallography instrumentation</li> <li>CaryUV-VIS 3500 multicell spectrophotometer</li> <li>BioRad NGC fPLC</li> <li>Formulatrix NT8 crystal setting robot</li> <li>Other equipment and core facilities include: qPCR, SDS-PAGE, ITC, CD spectrometer, NMR/Mass spectroscopy core facilities</li> </ul> <p> </p> <p><strong><em><u>NOTE: Sponsorship for H-1 B visas is not available at this time.</u></em></strong></p></div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Essential Functions</b></H2> </div><div><ul type="disc"> <li>Independently conduct research experiments with rigor</li> <li>Interpret data from biophysical and structural experiments</li> <li>Familiarize yourself with relevant literature to develop novel ideas for new research directions for both the lab and your future independent career</li> <li>Lead the production of manuscripts and presentations for which you will be the first author. Support the production of manuscripts, presentations, and reports for which you will be an author.</li> <li>Mentor undergraduate and graduate students in scientific methodology, presentations, & writing.</li> <li>Help maintain lab equipment and safety protocols</li> </ul></div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Required Education</b></H2> </div><div><p><span style="font-size:14.0px"><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Doctoral Degree in the appropriate field or discipline, or the recognized terminal degree</span></span></p> </div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Required Experience</b></H2> </div><div><ul> <li><span style="font-size:14.0px"><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">In-depth knowledge of specialized field, process or discipline.</span></span></li> <li><span style="font-size:14.0px"><span style="font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">May require experience with specialized software programs. </span></span></li> </ul> </div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Additional Qualifications Considered</b></H2> </div><div><ul type="disc"> <li>Ph.D. in Structural Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related field</li> <li>Extensive experience in protein expression and purification (<em>E. coli</em>)</li> <li>Extensive experience with at least X-ray crystallography or cryo-electron microscopy including sample preparation, data collection, and processing.</li> <li>Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently</li> <li>Experience preparing manuscripts for peer review</li> </ul></div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Application Process</b></H2> </div><div><p>Interested candidates should submit the following to [email protected]:</p> <p> </p> <ol start="1" type="1"> <li>A cover letter detailing research interests and relevant experience</li> <li>A curriculum vitae</li> <li>Contact information for three references</li> </ol> <p>Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.</p> <p> </p> <p>The expected start date is September 2026, but it is flexible.</p></div></div><div style="padding:10.0px 0.0px;border:1.0px solid transparent"><div style="font-size:16.0px;word-wrap:break-word"><H2 style="font-size:1.0em;margin:0.0px"><b>Physical Requirements/Work Environment</b></H2> </div><ul style="margin-top:0.0;margin-bottom:0.0"><li>Office environment/no specific unusual physical or environmental demands. </li></ul></div></div><p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Compensation and Benefits</span></strong></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">UC offers an exceptional benefits package designed to support your well-being, financial security, and work-life balance. </span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"><a href="https://www.uc.edu/employees/hr/benefits.html">(UC Benefits)</a></span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"> Eligibility may vary by position and FTE status. Highlights include:</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Salary/Hourly Pay Rate Information: 56,697</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Comprehensive Tuition Remission</span></strong></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">UC provides tuition remission for you and your eligible dependents, covering tuition costs for nearly all undergraduate and graduate programs offered by the university.</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Robust Retirement Plans</span></strong></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">As a UC employee, you won’t contribute to Social Security (except Medicare). Instead, you’ll choose between state pension plans (OPERS, STRS) or an Alternative Retirement Plan (ARP), with UC contributing 14–18% of your salary based on position.</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Real Work-Life Balance</span></strong></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">UC prioritizes work-life balance with a generous time-off policy, including:</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Vacation and sick time</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">11 paid holidays and additional end-of-year paid time off (Winter Season Days)</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">6 weeks of paid parental leave for new parents</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Additional Benefits Include:</span></strong></p> <ul style="margin-bottom:0.0in;margin-top:0.0px" type="disc"> <li style="line-height:normal;margin-top:0.0in;margin-right:0.0in;margin-bottom:8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Competitive salary of $56,697<strong> </strong>based on qualifications and experience</span></li> <li style="line-height:normal;margin-top:0.0in;margin-right:0.0in;margin-bottom:8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, prescription)</span></li> <li style="line-height:normal;margin-top:0.0in;margin-right:0.0in;margin-bottom:8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Flexible spending accounts & wellness programs</span></li> <li style="line-height:normal;margin-top:0.0in;margin-right:0.0in;margin-bottom:8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Professional development & mentorship opportunities</span></li> </ul> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">To learn more about why UC is a great place to work, please visit our </span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"><a href="https://www.uc.edu/careers.html">Careers Page</a></span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">.</span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">UC is an E-Verify employer. If hired into this position, you will be required to provide satisfactory proof of employment eligibility by providing acceptable, original forms of identification for employment verification via the Federal I-9 employment verification process. Click </span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"><a href="https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents">here</a></span><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif"> for a list of acceptable documents. </span></p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="line-height:normal;margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.0pt;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Important</span></strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">: To apply you must create a profile and submit a complete job application through the <u><a href="https://jobs.uc.edu/">UC applicant portal</a></u>. We are unable to consider “easy apply” applications submitted via other websites. For questions about the UC recruiting process or to request accommodations with the application, please contact UC HR at <span style="color:blue;text-decoration:underline"><a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a></span></span><span style="color:blue;text-decoration:underline"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">.</span></span></p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.25pt;line-height:normal;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.25pt;line-height:normal;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">Equal Opportunity Employer. Building a workplace where all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment, including Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans.</span></strong></p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.25pt;line-height:normal;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"> </p> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 8.25pt;line-height:normal;font-size:12.0pt;font-family:Aptos, sans-serif"><span style="font-family:Arial, sans-serif">REQ: 102134<img src="data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAA8AAAAPCAMAAAAMCGV4AAAAAXNSR0ICQMB9xQAAAANQTFRFAAAAp3o92gAAAAF0Uk5TAEDm2GYAAAAJcEhZcwAADsQAAA7EAZUrDhsAAAAZdEVYdFNvZnR3YXJlAE1pY3Jvc29mdCBPZmZpY2V/7TVxAAAADElEQVQY02NgGFkAAADwAAFrdgjcAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC" width="15" height="15" border="0"></span></p>