Postdoctoral Associate – Chemical Biology & Protein Biophysics

Job Title: Postdoctoral Associate – Chemical Biology & Protein Biophysics

Job Number: 126968

Location: Boulder, US

Job Description

The laboratory of Dr. Maciej Walczak at the University of Colorado Boulder is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to join an interdisciplinary program at the interface of chemical biology, biophysics, and neurodegeneration.

Our research focuses on how site-specific glycosylation and other post-translational modifications (PTMs) reprogram the structure and function of proteins implicated in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. This work integrates chemical synthesis, quantitative biophysics, and human iPSC-derived cellular models to define how PTMs control protein conformation, receptor interactions, aggregation, clearance, and intercellular propagation.

Project Scope

The successful candidate will pursue a mechanistic, structure–function understanding of disease-relevant proteins using complementary biochemical, biophysical, and cellular approaches. Responsibilities include:

• Design and execution of quantitative biophysical experiments
• Measurement of binding kinetics and affinities (e.g., BLI, SPR)
• Mapping conformational dynamics and structural changes associated with glycosylation and ligand binding
• Analysis of complex datasets, including kinetic modeling and structure–function relationships
• Integration of data across chemical, biophysical, and cellular platforms
• Mentorship of graduate and undergraduate researchers
• Preparation of manuscripts, figures, and grant contributions
• Presentation of research at seminars and conferences

Qualifications

Required:

• PhD in biochemistry, biophysics, chemical biology, or related field
• Strong background in protein biophysics or method development
• Interest in neurodegeneration and interdisciplinary research

Preferred:

• Experience with BLI/SPR, protein aggregation assays, or kinetic analysis
• Familiarity with mass spectrometry, structural biology, or advanced imaging
• Background in protein chemistry or PTM-focused studies

Position Details

• Full-time, in-person position (Boulder, CO)
• Salary: $60,000–$70,000/year, commensurate with experience
• Anticipated start date: June 2026 (flexible)
• Priority deadline: May 10, 2026

Environment

The Department of Chemistry at CU Boulder offers a highly collaborative and internationally recognized research environment spanning chemical biology, biophysics, and materials science.

This position provides an opportunity to link molecular precision to disease biology, with strong exposure to interdisciplinary methods and high-impact research directions.

Application Instructions

Please submit:

• CV
• Cover letter
• One reference letter

Applications must be submitted through the CU Boulder Jobs portal (no email submissions).

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Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Colorado Boulder is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic community. Applications from individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged.

Application Deadline: 2026-07-31