Careers @ MSU

Position Summary

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Kristin N. Parent at Michigan State University. The Parent lab’s research focuses on a correlated approach to deciphering the processes of virus assembly and infection via a combination of biochemistry, molecular biology, biophysics, structural biology, and experimental evolution studies. The main project of the laboratory involves understanding host-recognition mechanisms in dsDNA-containing bacteriophage.

Applications will be considered from highly motivated individuals with a Ph.D. degree in the Natural Sciences. Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated expertise in the following: structural biology methods (e.g. cryo-electron microscopy), molecular biology expertise, bacterial genetics or virus-related research, general knowledge of biochemistry techniques (including but not limited to gel electrophoresis, sterile techniques, plating protocols, and general microbiology). Applicants with mammalian cell culture experience are also encouraged to apply.

Specific duties for this position include:

• Performing tests and assays to generate data for research (focused ion beam milling, cryo-electron tomography of phage infected cells or similar, image analysis and three dimensional reconstructions). (75% of time)
• Writing manuscripts (5% of time)
• Professional development (10% of time)
• General lab duties including but not limited to shared chores, attendance at group meetings or other lab events, etc. (10% of time)

This work was supported in part by the MSU Research Foundation Postdoctoral Scholars Program, Office of Research and Innovation, Michigan State University. This program is aligned with the research priorities of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate -Natural Sciences

Minimum Requirements

Ph.D. degree in the Natural Sciences

Evidence of productivity via publications

Desired Qualifications

Preference will be given to applicants with demonstrated expertise in the following: structural biology methods (e.g. cryo-electron microscopy), molecular biology expertise, bacterial genetics or virus-related research, general knowledge of biochemistry techniques (including but not limited to gel electrophoresis, sterile techniques, plating protocols, and general microbiology). Applicants with mammalian cell culture experience are also encouraged to apply.

Required Application Materials

cover letter

CV

names and contact information for 2-3 letter writers

Special Instructions

Must be available to start before 2/15/2027.

Review of Applications Begins On

10/05/2026

Website

https://kparentlab.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.