Postdoctoral Associate

About the Role

The Zhang lab at Rice University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to research in cell-free synthetic biology. This role involves working with Dr. Yan Zhang and the research team to develop and execute experimental approaches using cell-free systems, biological constructs, extracts, and related assays. The position will contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and interpretation of research studies, and will help advance experimental workflows. The postdoctoral associate will collaborate with graduate students, research staff, and external partners, and will contribute to the documentation, communication, and dissemination of research findings.

This position is exclusively on-site at Rice University Campus.

Hiring Range: $50,000 - $55,000 annually

This is a one-year, full-time, benefits-eligible position, renewable based on funding, research needs, and performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on the development and characterization of cell-free gene expression systems for programmable biological function.
• Design and execute experiments involving molecular cloning, protein expression, gene expression, and related synthetic biology workflows.
• Perform mass spectrometry-based characterization and quantitative analysis of experimental data.
• Analyze bioinformatics and other research data using Python and related computational tools.
• Develop, evaluate, and refine experimental approaches as research objectives evolve.
• Interpret research findings and identify appropriate next steps in collaboration with the principal investigator and research team.
• Prepare figures, manuscripts, conference presentations, and technical content for grant reports.
• Collaborate with graduate students and other research personnel on shared projects.
• Mentor undergraduate researchers and train new laboratory members in relevant methods and workflows.
• Maintain complete and accurate research records and documentation.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Ph.D. in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, Biochemistry, Synthetic Biology, or a closely related field by the start date.
• No additional experience beyond graduate research required.
• Hands-on experience with molecular cloning, protein and gene expression, and related experimental workflows.
• Experience with mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, quantitative data analysis, and/or Python-based research tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently in a collaborative research environment.
• Experience mentoring students, training laboratory members, or contributing to scholarly publications and presentations.

To apply, attach a resume in PDF format in the Supporting Documents section.