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Applications are invited for one or two postdoctoral positions in development of physics-based experimental and computational/analysis methods for understanding the structure and function of biomolecular systems. The work will involve CAD design,  microfabrication (using Cornell’s outstanding Nanofabrication Facility (www.cnf.cornell.edu)), apparatus construction, X-ray data collection (at CHESS, NSLS, or APS), electron diffraction data collection and analysis using Cornell facilities, laboratory-based experiments, and modeling and analysis of data.  The postdoctoral associate(s) will be expected to collaborate with CHESS staff scientists and other members of the microfabrication, structural biology, and X-ray science communities at Cornell, and to assist in supervising graduate and especially undergraduate students.  

Applicants may have a Ph.D. in physics, biophysics, applied physics, structural/molecular biology, chemistry, materials science or related fields.

The initial Postdoctoral Associate appointment will be for one year, with the expectation for renewal for at least one additional year.  Start dates are flexible and can be as early as June 2021.

The group of Prof. Robert Thorne at Cornell University studies a variety of biological, chemical, and materials physics problems relevant in probing and understanding biomolecular structure and function, and develops new methods for synchrotron X-ray and electron diffraction-based study of biomolecular systems. Our emphasis is on fundamental understanding and methods. Methods and tools we have developed are used by structural biologists around the world. Information on our current and past projects is available at www.lassp.cornell.edu/Thorne/research.html.

The postdoctoral position(s) will focus on developing and applying tools and methods for time-resolved crystallography, for cryogenic and time-resolved variable-temperature small-angle X-ray scattering, for single-particle cryo-electron microscopy, and for interpreting the resulting data to extract information about biomolecular structure, function, and energy landscapes. They will allow fundamental biophysical questions regarding enzymatic mechanisms, protein folding, protein evolution, allostery, and solvent structure and interactions to be addressed.

The work will make extensive use of the highly flexible facilities for X-ray science available at the Cornell High-Energy Synchrotron Source (CHESS) (www.chess.cornell.edu), and the outstanding microbeam capabilities at NSLS-II. 

Application material should be submitted to Academic Jobs Online. Complete applications will include a brief cover letter, a CV, a detailed summary of research experience and interests, and three letters of recommendation.  Recommendation letters, if not initially provided, will be requested after application screening. 

Diversity and Inclusion are a part of Cornell University’s heritage. The College of Arts and Sciences at Cornell embraces diversity and seeks candidates who will create a climate that attracts students and faculty of all races, nationalities, and genders. We strongly encourage women and underrepresented minorities to apply. Cornell University is a recognized EEO/AA employer and educator, valuing AA/EEO, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. 

 For further information, please contact Prof. Robert E. Thorne ret6@cornell.edu