Postdoctoral Scholar

US-OR-Portland

Requisition ID: 2026-40863
Position Category: Postdoctoral
Job Type: Postdoctoral
Posting Department: SM. Molecular Microbiology Immunology
Posting Salary Range: $66,932 - $81,282 per year, with offer based on experience, education and internal equity
Posting FTE: 1.00
Posting Schedule: Monday - Friday, occasional evening and weekends as needed
Posting Hours: 8:00am - 6:00pm
HR Mission: School of Medicine
Drug Testable: No

Department Overview

The Pruneda Lab is looking for a postdoctoral scholar to lead research projects using molecular and structural biology, protein biochemistry, and cell culture assays. Our lab studies host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level. Specifically, we study mechanisms by which pathogens interfere with host ubiquitin signaling networks to evade immune detection and promote infection.

The ideal candidate must be able to prioritize a variety of projects, able to work effectively with the principal investigator and other members of the laboratory, and able to independently solve problems. Qualifications include: PhD in relevant area of microbiology, molecular biology or biochemistry, ability to communicate effectively, and a willingness to learn new skills.

To apply, submit a CV with a cover letter that addresses the above points and explains your research interests.

Function/Duties of Position

• Contribute to the scientific direction and planning for a project within the lab.
• Perform experiments involving protein biochemistry, structure, bacteriology, molecular biology, and cell biology techniques.
• Apply for postdoctoral fellowships and contribute to the preparation of scientific publications.
• Attend lab meetings, analyze and discuss data, maintain lab notebook.
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in relevant field.
• Demonstrated knowledge in protein biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, and microbiology.
• Proven track record of proficiency with molecular biology techniques, including PCR, protein purification, and western blotting.
• Applied expertise with protein biochemistry and structural biology, including enzymology, biophysical characterization, and protein crystallography and/or CryoEM.
• Previous contribution to high-quality scientific publication(s).
• Proven experience with independent and collaborative research.
• Proven skills with oral and written forms of scientific communication.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Microbiology, or a related field.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the ubiquitin field.
• Applied expertise with mass spectrometry experimentation and data analysis.

Additional Details

Work is generally 40 hours per week during normal working hours, however, some evening and weekend work is necessary on occasion. Additional safety training may be required to work with cell lines, infectious bacteria, or viruses in a BSL-2 environment.

Benefits

• Healthcare for full-time employees covered 100% and 88% for dependents.
• $50K of term life insurance provided at no cost to the employee.
• Two separate above market pension plans to choose from.
• Paid time off - 208 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
• Extended illness bank - 64 hours per year, prorated for part-time.
• 9 paid holidays per year.
• Substantial Tri-Met and C-Tran discounts.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Childcare service discounts.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Employee discounts to local and major businesses.