Job Details

Primary Work Address: HHMI/Columbia University | Shadlen Lab--L5-003, New York, NY, 10027

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. We have an outstanding opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join Dr. Mustafa Aydogan’s lab team at Columbia University in New York City. The Aydogan lab investigates the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern time control in animal development and developmental metabolism.

This position is expected to begin after October 1, 2025 in concurrence with Dr. Aydogan’s upcoming appointment as a Freeman Hrabowski Scholar.

About the Postdoctoral Scientist role:

In collaboration with Dr. Halil Aydin’s lab at New York University focusing on structural biology and biochemistry, the Postdoctoral Scientist will dissect the molecular basis of a cellular clock governing the onset of cytoplasmic division (cytokinesis) independently of the nucleus and mitotic CDK/Cyclin complexes. They will use in vitro and in vivo reconstitution assays, which will provide a platform to investigate the mechanistic basis of protein-protein and protein-lipid interactions that regulate this putative molecular clock. In this project, they will take a multi-disciplinary approach that integrates biochemistry, biophysics and cell biology techniques, which will be combined with structure determination by Cryo-EM.

What we provide:

• A collaborative, intellectually curious lab environment that values innovation, creativity, scientific rigor, balance, and teamwork.
• Generous and stable research funding from HHMI.
• Joining the vibrant Columbia research community.
• Mentorship to help you thrive scientifically and prepare for the next step of your career.
• Opportunities to mentor the next generation of scientists.
• Opportunities to attend scientific workshops and conferences.
• Collaboration with a biochemistry-focused partner lab at NYU.
• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Full access to HHMI’s on-demand training courses and interactive skill-building seminars.

What you’ll do:

• Lead a research project that focuses on protein biochemistry including cell fractionation, organelle and protein purification, in vitro / in vivo reconstitution, fluorescent live-microscopy, cell biology, and structural assays (including Cryo-EM) to discover the molecular basis of a biological clock.
• Develop new experimental approaches to advance your project and the lab’s overall research efforts.
• Mentor students and research assistants to strengthen your mentoring and lab leadership skills.
• Write scientific manuscripts describing research findings.
• Attend local and national meetings to present research findings, learn about the latest advances in the field, and develop a scientific network.

What you bring:

• A PhD in the life sciences is required. Focus on biochemistry, particularly protein biochemistry, is preferred.
• Proven experience in independent research and strong wet lab skills, with the ability to design, execute, analyze, and publish your work.
• A strong publication record that showcases concrete research excellence, including at least one first author paper either published or in pre-print form from your PhD studies.
• A self-motivated mindset with the persistence to explore innovative research directions and address challenging scientific problems.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to tackle challenges creatively.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present and discuss findings clearly in diverse settings.
• A flexible and adaptive approach, willing to learn new techniques, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Meticulous approach to work with a high level of attention to detail.
• Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and congenial environment.
• Strong commitment to research integrity.