Position Title:Postdoctoral Research Associate - Computational Structural Biology & Chemistry
Appointment Type:Post Doc/Trainee
Job 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, 2026
Number of Months Employed Per Year:12 Month Work Period
Time Type:Full time
Pay Grade:Post Docs
Original Posting Date: May 18, 2026
Posting Close Date:May 25, 2026
Job Requisition Number:R19225
Iowa 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 (https://www.hr.iastate.edu/careers/compensation) website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
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All offers of employment, oral and written, are contingent upon the university's verification of credentials and other information required by federal and state law, ISU policies/procedures, and may include the completion of a background check and/or a consumer credit check.
Iowa 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.
If you have questions about the application process please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll-Free at 1-877-477-7485. Iowa State University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should email employment@iastate.edu or call (515) 294-4800 or Toll-Free: (877) 477-7485. TTY users are welcome to use the Iowa Relay Service number by dialing 7-1-1 or (800) 735-2942.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources (https://www.hr.iastate.edu/careers/compensation) website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.
