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Postdoctoral Research Associate (Atkinson Lab)

Closes:

Salary: $65,000 – $70,000 per year

168
Location: Princeton University Salary Range or Pay Grade: 65,000-70,000 Description The Atkinson laboratory in the Omenn-Darling Bioengineering Institute at Princeton University is seeking a full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate. The Atkinson lab focuses on using protein engineering and synthetic biology approaches to control gene expression and metabolism in cells and assembly biological materials. The position will be advised by Josh Atkinson and will work in close collaboration with a collaborative team of researchers based in the UK and the US. The main responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Associate is to lead the design and implementation of experiments for an ARIA-funded project. We will engineer microbial S-layer proteins into large-area, defect-free 2D lattices as tunable materials for molecular separations, catalysis, and photonics. This position offers the opportunity to gain research skills in bioengineering and perform team-based research on a fast-paced project. The ideal candidate will have experience in computational protein design, experimental protein engineering, protein purification, and characterization of protein materials (e.g., AFM, TEM). This position will allow for both professional and laboratory skill development as well as co-authorship on high-impact research articles. The PI is devoted to developing a supportive research environment and fostering career development for all members of the lab. Postdoctoral appointments will be for one year, renewable annually based on funding and meeting all other requirements. This position is subject to the University's background check policy. This position is not eligible for sponsorship of an H-1B visa requiring consular processing; other visa sponsorships (including H-1B visas not requiring consular processing) may be available, as appropriate. The work location for this position is in-person on campus at Princeton University. Qualifications Minimum Requirements: - Ph.D. in bioengineering, synthetic biology, biophysics, or related field - Prior experience working in a research environment - Experience in working in a microbiology lab, molecular biology, biochemistry, synthetic biology or equivalent. - Effective communication skills - Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail - Expertise or interest in learning protein engineering techniques - Must be able to manage own time and prioritize tasks. - Growth mindset - Safety conscious Preferred Requirements: - Experience with protein engineering and computational protein design - Experience/willingness to learn biochemistry techniques, spectroscopy, scanning-probe and electron microscopy techniques - Strong interpersonal and communication skills - Proficient in Microsoft Office - Proficient in Python or other scripting language - Experience with safety practices in an academic laboratory environment desired Application Instructions Applicants must include: - Cover letter - Curriculum vitae - The names and contact information of three (3) references Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Pay Transparency Disclosure The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly. The University also offers a comprehensive benefits program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information. PI287708071

Job details

Title
Postdoctoral Research Associate (Atkinson Lab)
Employer
Princeton University
Location
Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
Published
Oct 16, 2026
Closes:
Dec 15, 2026
Job type
Full time, Academic / Faculty, Biology
Field
Biological Engineering
Salary

Salary: $65,000 – $70,000 per year

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Princeton University Jobs

Princeton University

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Princeton University provides a diverse array of job and work opportunities, supporting its mission in education, research, and campus operations. These opportunities broadly fall into three main categories: academic and faculty positions, administrative and staff roles, and student employment. Princeton University Jobs - https://hub-princeton.icims.com/jobs/search Academic and Faculty Positions These roles focus on teaching, research, and scholarly activities, often requiring advanced degrees and expertise in specific fields. They include: Faculty roles : Tenure-track professors, assistant professors, associate professors, and full professors across departments like physics, computer science, arts, and more. Lecturers and instructors : Part-time or full-time teaching positions in various academic programs. Professional researchers and postdocs : Postdoctoral fellows and research associates involved in lab-based or theoretical research, such as in quantum science or plasma physics. Professional specialists and librarians : Specialists in areas like data analysis or curatorial roles at the Art Museum, and professional librarians managing collections and services. Recruitment for these positions is typically handled by individual academic departments, programs, the Art Museum, or the University Library. Interested candidates can explore opportunities through the Directory of Academic Units for contact information and apply via the AHIRE online system. https://fed.princeton.edu/cas/login Administrative and Staff Positions These non-academic roles support the university’s operations, infrastructure, and services. They are available on the main campus and at facilities like the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory. Key subcategories include: Managerial and professional roles : Supervisors, coaches, accountants, financial services specialists, grants managers, and administrative managers. Technology and IT positions : Software developers, IT support staff, and engineers in information technology. Technical and support roles : Laboratory support, research staff, operating engineers, tradespeople (e.g., electricians, plumbers), building services, groundskeepers, and campus security officers. Specialized featured areas : Health and safety officers, engineering positions (e.g., in facilities or research), campus dining staff (e.g., cooks, servers), and staff research support in various labs. These positions often emphasize skills in operations, safety, or specialized fields and may be open to internal candidates as well. To search and apply, use Princeton’s career portals: the main iCIMS site for managerial and office roles, a service-oriented portal for trades and security, and a research-specific portal for lab support. Featured jobs in areas like dining or IT have dedicated search links on the HR site. Student Employment Opportunities Princeton encourages students to work part-time to gain experience, build skills, and earn money, with options available both on and off campus. These roles are designed to be flexible around academic schedules. On-campus jobs : Service-oriented positions in dining halls (e.g., food service), libraries (e.g., shelving books, assisting patrons), or administrative offices. Research and academically oriented roles include lab assistants, research aides in departments like biology or physics, or project-based work in arts centers. These can be short-term (e.g., one semester) or long-term (spanning multiple years), and some may be remote. Off-campus jobs : Facilitated through the university’s Job Location and Development program, these include tutoring local students, childcare, or professionally oriented roles like internships with nearby organizations. They range from short-term gigs to ongoing positions. Benefits include competitive pay, mentorship from faculty or staff, professional development (e.g., resume-building skills), and fostering community connections. All university-affiliated jobs must be registered and applied for through the JobX Employment Portal, while off-campus employers post via registration with the financial aid office. Overall, Princeton emphasizes equal opportunity and inclusivity in hiring, with many roles offering benefits like professional growth and contributions to a vibrant academic community. For the most current listings, visit the university’s HR careers page or specific departmental sites.

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