Postdoctoral Researcher

32356BR

Medicinal Chemistry

Position Overview

This position is available at the University of Kansas, Lawrence.  Research projects will be held in the laboratory of Professor Michael Wolfe.  Successful candidates will conduct research on protease biochemistry, biophysics, and molecular biology, specifically the study of the intramembrane protease gamma-secretase.  Mutations in this membrane protease complex cause hereditary early-onset Alzheimer’s disease.  The position will involve elucidation of other factors that affect enzyme activity, effects of disease-causing mutations on cellular functions, and ability of small-molecule modulators to restore enzyme activity and downstream cellular functions. 

Job Description

60% - Designing and execution of experiments

• These duties include carrying out original research relative to the mission of the Wolfe laboratory.  The lab is focused on the mechanism and pharmacological modulation of the intramembrane protease gamma-secretase and understanding the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease.  The successful applicant will design and execute experiments that pertain to current research topics in the laboratory.  Laboratory techniques will include cloning and mutagenesis, protein expression/purification/characterization, enzyme and cell-based assays, mass spectrometry, and testing small-molecule modulators.

20% - Prepare lab reports and presentations and write manuscripts

• These duties include preparing presentations for internal and external meetings and writing technical internal reports, standard protocols developed in the lab and scientific papers for peer reviewed journals.

10% - Assist other lab members with experiments

• Trains other staff in the use of specialized equipment as well as coordinates the maintenance of laboratory equipment.

10% - Routine lab management

• These duties include but are not limited to ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, management of laboratory records and documents as well as experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab practices and lab safety.

Required Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

Additional Candidate Instruction

A complete application includes: an online application, cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references. The cover letter and resume should clearly indicate you meet the required qualifications and to what degree you meet preferred qualifications.

Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Review of applications will begin Monday, April 6th and continue until a qualified pool of applicants is identified.

Advertised Salary Range

$62,652.00

Application Review Begins

06-Apr-2026

Anticipated Start Date

01-Jun-2026

Primary Campus

University of Kansas Lawrence Campus

Employee Class

U-Unclassified Professional Staff

Work Schedule

Mon-Fri 9 am – 5 pm

Conditions of Employment

Contingent on Funding, Limited Term

Work Location Assignment

On-Site

Disclaimer

The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression, and genetic information in the university's programs and activities. Retaliation is also prohibited by university policy. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies and is the Title IX coordinator for all KU and KUMC campuses: Associate Vice Chancellor for the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX, civilrights@ku.edu, Room 1082, Dole Human Development Center, 1000 Sunnyside Avenue, Lawrence, KS 66045, 785-864-6414, 711 TTY.