Postdoctoral Research Associate – Computational Glycobiology and Innate Immunity

COMBINE Lab, Department of Bioengineering, Northeastern University

Principal Investigator: Dr. Mona Minkara

Funding: NIH MIRA (R35) Grant

Position Summary:

The Computational Modeling for Biointerface Engineering (COMBINE) Lab at Northeastern University is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to contribute to NIH MIRA-funded research on bacterial surface glycans and their interactions with collectins, key proteins in the innate immune system. This work integrates computational chemistry, molecular biophysics, and glycobiology to uncover fundamental mechanisms in host-pathogen recognition.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and analyze molecular models of glycan-collectin interactions using molecular dynamics, docking (e.g., IFD), metadynamics, and free energy perturbation (FEP) techniques.
• Construct and contribute to the development of software tools for simulation and analysis.
• Integrate and interpret simulation results to derive design rules for modifying collectins to improve glycan recognition.
• Contribute to manuscripts, presentations, and dissemination of research findings at scientific conferences.
• Assist with the mentorship and guidance of students in the lab.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in computational chemistry, biophysics, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Experience with molecular dynamics, docking, or related modeling techniques.
• Strong programming and data analysis skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in glycan modeling or immunology.
• Familiarity with molecular modeling software such as AMBER, GROMACS, or Schrodinger tools.

Position Type

Research