Job Description
Job Overview:
Position Title:
Postdoctoral Research Associate – Computational Structural Biology & ChemistryAppointment Type:
Post Doc/TraineeJob Description:
Summary of Duties and Responsibilities:
We are seeking two highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Associates in computational structural biology and computational chemistry. These positions focus on advancing molecular-level understanding of biomolecular systems through cutting-edge computational approaches.
Successful candidates will conduct research in protein biophysics, biomolecular simulations, and small-molecule modeling, with an emphasis on developing and applying computational methodologies. This includes molecular dynamics simulations, enhanced sampling techniques, free-energy calculations, and quantum-mechanical approaches such as density functional theory (DFT).
A key aspect of this role is contributing beyond standard software use—candidates will be expected to develop, modify, and validate computational methods, including force field parameterization and integration of quantum-derived parameters into simulation workflows.
The positions involve close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams working on proteins, enzymes, ligands, metals, and biomolecular design, bridging computational and experimental research.
Required Minimum Qualifications:
- Ph.D. in Chemistry, Physics, or Chemical Engineering
- Demonstrated expertise through peer-reviewed publications in protein biophysics, biomolecular simulations, computational chemistry, or related areas.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience developing or modifying computational methods, including force field parameterization or algorithm development
- Experience with molecular dynamics simulations, including enhanced sampling methods, free energy calculations, or density functional theory (DFT)
- Proficiency with GPU-accelerated simulations and high-performance computing environments, including coarse-grained and all-atom modeling approaches
- Experience integrating advanced techniques such as quantum mechanical calculations, reaction coordinate analysis, or AI/ML methods into structural biology or computational chemistry workflows
Department/Program & College Description:
The Nanovaccine Institute was founded at Iowa State University building upon core partnerships with the University of Iowa and the University of Nebraska Medical Center but has connections with public institutions and private industries across the United States through a consortium of members. Our purpose is to use nano-based technologies to tackle emergent diseases that have a devastating impact on human and animal health.
Department Unit/Website (if applicable):
nanovaccine.iastate.edu
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
- Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
- Generous vacation, holiday, and sick time and leave plans
- Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
- Life insurance and long-term disability
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Various voluntary benefits and discounts
- Employee Assistance Program
- Wellbeing program
- Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Proposed Start Date:
June 15, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:
Full timePay Grade:
Post DocsOriginal Posting Date:
May 18, 2026Posting Close Date:
May 25, 2026Job Requisition Number:
R19225Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email eooffice@iastate.edu.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
