Post-Doctoral Fellow

Job Summary:

The Cui Lab (www.thecuilab.com) in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, is seeking a highly motivated and creative Post-Doctoral Fellow. This is a unique opportunity to be a founding member of a new research program at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, helping to shape the scientific direction of a lab dedicated to uncovering the structural logic of cellular signaling.

The research in the lab centers on the structural logic of membrane-localized cellular signaling pathways, including mTORC1 and small GTPases. By employing high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and tomography (cryo-ET), we aim to capture the transient, high-order assemblies that trigger signaling in response to stress. In addition to protein-protein interactions, the lab explores the role of membrane dynamics and lipid environments in modulating signaling scaffolds. We investigate how membrane-remodeling complexes and specific lipid compositions influence the spatial organization of the lysosomal surface. Our goal is to reconstitute these signaling events in vitro to determine how physical changes in the membrane bilayer coordinate with biochemical signals to control cell fate. This work bridges the gap between static structural snapshots and the fluid, dynamic nature of the cellular landscape, providing a holistic view of how metabolic sensors operate within their native membrane environments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead Research: Design and execute independent projects focusing on membrane-localized signaling complexes or membrane-remodeling complexes.

• Technical Innovation: Utilize and develop expertise in high-resolution cryo-EM, cryo-ET, and the reconstitution of membrane-associated signaling complexes.

• Data Analysis: Use computational tools (e.g., CryoSPARC, ChimeraX) to analyze and interpret complex structural data.

• Leadership: Help establish lab protocols and mentor graduate and undergraduate students as the lab grows.

Work Location:

Onsite - this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.

Why Join Us:

Our department conducts research across a wide biological scale for fundamental scientific understanding with applications to many disease contexts. The overarching goal is to reach a level of molecular insight that helps develop therapeutic approaches to disease.

As biochemists and molecular geneticists, we are amid an unprecedented time of discovery - our conception of the molecular biology of cells is going from the equivalent of grainy black-and-white to high-resolution technicolor. From deciphering the choreography of transcription complexes, chromosomes, and RNA molecules within cells to developing novel approaches to 3D molecular structure determination to understanding how viruses hijack a cell's machinery and alter its metabolome, the researchers in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BMG) are at the forefronts of their fields both conceptually and technologically.

Why work for the University?

The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package. To see what benefits are available for Post-Doctoral Fellows, please visit:

• Payroll & Benefits Orientation for Post-Doctoral Fellows | University of Colorado (cu.edu)

• Post-Doctoral Benefits Guide

There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

• PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Membrane biology, Structural Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field.

• Experience with data analysis and interpretation

Preferred Qualifications:

• Expertise in either membrane biology, protein purification, biochemical, biophysical assays, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), or cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET)

• Experience mentoring or supervising students, research assistants, or junior trainees

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to manuscripts and presentations

• Ability to lead and troubleshoot research projects

• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet research deadlines, and contribute positively to a rigorous and inclusive lab culture

• Ability to plan and carry out experiments with minimal supervision

How to Apply:

For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

1. Cover Letter describing relevant job experiences as they relate to the listed job qualifications and interest in the position

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).

3. Contact information for 3 references, including name, address, phone number, and email address

Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.

Questions should be directed to: Zhicheng Cui, zhicheng.cui@cuanschutz.edu

Screening of Applications Begins:

Applications will be accepted until finalists are identified, but preference will be given to complete applications received by April 22, 2026. Those who do not apply by this date may or may not be considered.

Anticipated Pay Range:

The starting salary range (or hiring range) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:

$62,232 to $75,564

The above salary range (or hiring range) represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:

The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

ADA Statement:

The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu.

Background Check Statement:

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.

Vaccination Statement:

CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.