Postdoctoral Researcher - Pharmacology and Toxicology

Medical College of Wisconsin
parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, 403(b)
United States, Wisconsin, Milwaukee
Apr 13, 2026
Summary A postdoctoral fellowship is available in the Zhu Lab at MCW to investigate the molecular mechanisms of membrane protein complexes, including their oligomerization, trafficking and cell signaling, using advanced structural biology approaches. The successful candidate will lead an independent research project focused on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) and related membrane proteins, examining how receptor function is regulated by ligands, interacting partners, and the cellular environment. This work will integrate cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), biochemical and cell biology assays, and computational modeling to elucidate mechanisms of cell signaling and inform the development of novel therapeutic strategies for human disease. The laboratory provides a rich, interdisciplinary environment with established platforms including bacterial, insect, and mammalian protein expression systems; cryo-EM workflows; biochemical and cell biology techniques; and computational biology tools. The postdoctoral fellow is strongly encouraged to apply for internal and external fellowship funding, including programs such as the MCW Cancer Center Postdoctoral and Clinical Fellowship Program and Postdoctoral Researcher Seed Grants. Continued support for this position will be based on annual performance review. Characteristics of a postdoctoral appointment: It is expected that postdocs at MCW, with the assistance of their supervisor, will: Transition to career independence through the development of professional skills that enable the postdoc to actively pursue a career of his/her own choosing. Be supervised by at least one senior scholar who actively promotes the postdoc's professional development. Establish an individual development plan (IDP) that incorporates equally the postdoc's career and training goals and the mentor's research goals. Pursue basic or translational projects so long as effort is focused primarily on research. Publish results of the postdoc's research and scholarship during their appointment. The postdoctoral appointment is temporary by nature, the aggregate amount of time spent as a postdoc is recommended to not exceed five years (not including family medical leave or maternity/paternity leave). As postdocs are important members of the host institution's community, appropriate levels of compensation, health care, and other benefits commensurate with their essential status should be afforded, independent of the postdoc's source of funding. Primary Responsibilities Design, plan, and execute independent research projects on GPCRs and cell signaling. Perform membrane protein expression, purification, and structural studies using cryo-EM and/or crystallography. Apply computational modeling and integrate structural, biochemical, and cell biology data. Analyze and interpret experimental data; develop and optimize methodologies. Prepare manuscripts, reports, and presentations of research findings. Participate in lab meetings and collaborate with team members. Assist in grant writing and fellowship applications. Mentor and train junior lab members as appropriate. Maintain laboratory organization, supplies, and experimental workflows. Knowledge - Skills - Abilities Required Knowledge: Structural biology, biochemistry, biophysics, cell biology, computational biology, or related biomedical sciences Protein expression and purification techniques Data analysis, statistics, and scientific writing Complex problem solving and critical thinking Preferred Skills and Abilities: Experience with cryo-EM single particle analysis and/or X-ray crystallography Familiarity with membrane protein biochemistry Computational modeling and structural analysis tools Strong organizational, communication, and collaboration skills Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects Qualifications Minimum Required Education: PhD in a scientific field Minimum Required Experience: 0 years Preferred Experience: Postdoc experiences in structural biology field is preferred. Physical Requirements Work requires occasionally lifting moderate weight materials, standing, or walking continuously. Work Environment Occasional exposure to dust, noise, temperature changes, or contact with water or other liquids. Work is performed in an environmentally controlled environment. Sensory Acuity Ability to detect and translate speech or other communication required. May occasionally require the ability to distinguish colors and perceive relative distances between objects. Why MCW? Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental. Along with Flexible Spending options 403B Retirement Package Competitive Vacation and Paid Holidays offered Tuition Reimbursement Paid Parental Leave Employee & Family Assistance Program (EFAP) Pet Insurance On campus Fitness Facility, offering onsite classes Additional discounted rates on items such as: Select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation and entertainment etc. For a brief overview of our benefits see: Benefits Overview For a full list of positions see: MCW Careers At MCW all of our endeavors, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: Caring - Collaborative - Curiosity - Inclusive - Integrity - Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives through merit-based processes and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you. For more information, please visit our institutional website. MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination: The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 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