Postdoctoral Associate in cryogenic electron microscopy

Classification Title:
Postdoctoral Associate 

Job Description:

Join a dynamic structural biology group at the Wertheim UF Scripps Institute, where we push the boundaries of molecular visualization and membrane biology. Our lab integrates cutting-edge cryoEM, membrane biophysics, and infection/immunity research to redefine how receptors like integrins, GPCRs, and adhesion complexes are regulated. This position offers the opportunity to drive high-impact projects, publish in top journals, and grow your expertise in method development and biological discovery.

About this opportunity

Successful candidates will work in a cutting-edge research environment with new state-of-the-art facilities. The laboratory has outstanding cell biology, molecular biology, protein expression, purification, biochemistry, cryogenic electron microscopy, and protein crystallography facilities. The laboratory has access to many exceptional Cores, facilitating basic research and drug development. The unique infrastructure includes the application of unique chemical, genomic, proteomic, informatics, and high-throughput screening and engineering tools for discovering novel biomolecules.

CryoEM at UF-Scripps

Tina Izard installed the first 300 kV cryo Atomic Resolution Microscope (cryoARM300) in the Americas ) and has plenty of microscope time dedicated to the post-doctoral associates. This state-of-the-art transmission electron microscope is a 300 kV high-resolution microscope capable of carrying out cryogenic electron microscopy studies by providing atomic resolution for structural studies involving single particle analyses. The transmission electron microscope is equipped with a new and improved Gatan K3 direct electron detector camera with better DQE, a larger field of view (24 Megapixels – 5,760 x 4,092), and faster (3.75 times that of the K2 camera). The direct detection devices are exquisitely sensitive, produce high signal-to-noise images, and are ideal for high-resolution studies.

X-ray crystallography at UF-Scripps

The lab has access to SER-CAT beamlines at Sector 22 of the Advanced Photon Source, including modern insertion device lines (22-ID-D, variable wavelength, and 22-ID-E, fixed wavelength) as well as a bending magnet line (22-BM) for macromolecular crystallography. These facilities are equipped with updated optics and detectors, and fall under current APS upgrades, ensuring high performance for structural biology projects.

The lab has access to a HighFlux X-ray diffraction system, specifically a Rigaku MicroMax-007 HF, a second-generation microfocus rotating anode generator, and a mar345 Image Plate detector. An Osmic VariMax optics system and the Proteros Free Mounting System can be used to control the humidity and optimize diffraction characteristics, including resolution, mosaicity, anisotropy, and reduced X-ray background.

Intellectual environment

The Wertheim UF Scripps Institute shares its Jupiter campus with the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI), North America's only Max Planck Institute. MPFI is internationally recognized for innovation in imaging and neuroscience, and its presence creates a unique, highly collaborative research environment. Postdocs benefit from joint seminars, shared facilities, interdisciplinary collaborations, and daily interaction with world-class scientists across structural biology, chemical biology, and neuroscience. This close partnership expands opportunities for discovery and professional growth beyond what most academic campuses offer.

Why Jupiter, Florida?

The Wertheim UF Scripps Institute is located in Jupiter, Florida, a vibrant coastal community in Palm Beach County. Jupiter offers an outstanding quality of life with year-round sunshine, beautiful beaches, outdoor recreation, and a safe, family-friendly atmosphere. The area combines the advantages of a relaxed lifestyle with proximity to Miami and Orlando for cultural and professional opportunities. Florida has no state income tax, making post-doctoral salaries go further, and the cost of living in northern Palm Beach County is favorable compared to many other significant research hubs. The campus itself is part of a growing biotech corridor that includes Max Planck Florida, providing an interdisciplinary, collaborative environment with cutting-edge science in an exceptional location.

Expected Salary:

NRSA Minimum Salary. 

Minimum Requirements:

Applicants with a recently awarded Ph.D. degree in a relevant scientific discipline.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in cryogenic electron microscopy (cryoEM).
• Any structural biologist is highly encouraged to apply.

Special Instructions to Applicants:

The University of Florida is a member of the State University System of Florida and an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on merit.

If an accommodation due to a disability is needed to apply for this position, please call or the Florida Relay System at TDD) or visit Accessibility at UF.

In order to be considered, please upload a cover letter and resume.   

For any inquiries, you may contact Dr. T. Izard, at 

The final candidate will be required to provide official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible. Degrees earned from an education institution outside of the United States are required to be evaluated by a professional credentialing service provider approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which can be found at 

Please provide names and email addresses of three to five references as part of the UF application process. When ready, the hiring department will contact the listed references via email requesting their reference letters to be uploaded directly to the application website.

This position is open until filled. Application review will begin May 2, 2025. 

This is a time-limited position. 

Health Assessment Required:
No. 

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