Postdoc in Anaerobic Microbiology in Northeastern University – United States

Summary

Northeastern University's Woolston Lab is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Anaerobic Microbiology. The position is funded by a National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant and focuses on unlocking the biosynthetic potential of Clostridial bacteria for novel bioactive compounds and enzymes. The research involves biochemical and in vivo characterization of cobalamin-dependent radical S-adenosylmethionine B12-rSAM enzymes and the discovery of novel antimicrobials from cellulolytic Clostridia. Candidates should hold a PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, with a strong publication record and expertise in bacterial genetics, anaerobic microbiology, and bioinformatics. The role involves independent research, mentorship of junior lab members, and communication of findings through publications and presentations. The expected hiring salary range is $60,315.00 – $85,192.50.

Key Facts

Department	Woolston Lab
Position Type	Postdoctoral Research Associate
Discipline	Microbiology
Research Area	Anaerobic Microbiology, Enzyme Biochemistry, Natural Products Discovery
Degree Required	PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a related field
Experience	Demonstrated publication record of scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals; experience investigating and characterizing natural products biosynthesis or purifying and functionally characterizing oxygen-sensitive enzymes; experience with modern bacterial genetics workflows; experience with anaerobic microbiology techniques; bioinformatics skills relevant to genomics-driven natural products discovery; strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills; rigorous scientific documentation practices; excellent written and oral communication skills; demonstrated ability or strong potential to mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers; ability to work independently and drive a research project forward while collaborating effectively within a team environment.
Salary	$60,315.00 – $85,192.50
Funding	National Institutes of Health (NIH) grant
Required Documents	Resume
Employer Address	Boston, MA Main Campus

About the Project

The research project, funded by an NIH grant, aims to explore the biosynthetic potential of Clostridial bacteria. It has two main directions: first, the biochemical and in vivo characterization of a new family of cobalamin-dependent radical S-adenosylmethionine (B12-rSAM) enzymes fused to non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) adenylation domains, hypothesized to catalyze a stereoselective carbon backbone methylation reaction. Second, the discovery of novel antimicrobials from cellulolytic Clostridia through heterologous expression of biosynthetic gene clusters and activation of cryptic pathways in native producers via elicitor screening.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research, including developing assays, designing experiments, generating data, and analyzing results.
• Discuss and develop research plans and experiments in consultation with Prof. Woolston.
• Communicate research progress in regular meetings with Prof. Woolston.
• Read and review scientific literature relevant to the project scope.
• Communicate results through laboratory group meetings, scientific conferences, peer-reviewed publications, and funding agency reports.
• Prepare presentations, manuscripts, patent applications, and other scholarly or research-related materials.
• Participate in professional development activities, including workshops, seminars, courses, and fellowship applications.
• Engage in career development activities and preparation for future career opportunities as appropriate.

Required Skills

• PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical engineering or a related field.
• Demonstrated publication record of scientific findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience investigating and characterizing natural products biosynthesis or experience purifying and functionally characterizing oxygen-sensitive enzymes (e.g., iron-sulfur proteins and radical enzymes).
• Experience with modern bacterial genetics workflows, including cloning, genome editing (CRISPR-based tools), and transposon mutagenesis.
• Experience with anaerobic microbiology techniques, including cultivation, handling, and experimental work under strictly anaerobic conditions.
• Bioinformatics skills relevant to genomics-driven natural products discovery, including genome mining, biosynthetic gene cluster analysis, sequence alignment, and annotation.
• Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills for experimental data interpretation.
• Rigorous scientific documentation practices, including maintenance of detailed laboratory notebooks and research records.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills with the ability to present research findings clearly to both specialist and general audiences.
• Demonstrated ability or strong potential to mentor undergraduate and graduate researchers.
• Ability to work independently and drive a research project forward while collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Who Should Apply

This position is ideal for a highly motivated individual with a PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field, who has a strong publication record and expertise in anaerobic microbiology, enzyme biochemistry, and natural products discovery. Candidates with experience in bacterial genetics, bioinformatics, and the characterization of oxygen-sensitive enzymes are particularly competitive. The role requires the ability to conduct independent research, mentor junior lab members, and effectively communicate scientific findings.

Benefits

• Medical vision dental
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Wellness & life
• Retirement
• Commuting & transportation

About the Employer

Northeastern University, founded in 1898, is a global research university recognized for experiential lifelong learning. It integrates real-world experience with education, research, and innovation. The university operates a global system with 14 campuses across the U.S., U.K., and Canada, serving over 300,000 alumni and 3,000 partners worldwide. Its research enterprise holds an R1 Carnegie classification, focusing on solutions-oriented, interdisciplinary work to address global challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of the research in the Woolston Lab?

The Woolston Lab conducts research at the intersection of anaerobic microbiology, enzyme biochemistry, and natural products discovery, specifically focusing on unlocking the biosynthetic potential of Clostridial bacteria.

What are the two main directions of the research program?

The first direction involves the biochemical and in vivo characterization of cobalamin-dependent radical S-adenosylmethionine (B12-rSAM) enzymes. The second direction focuses on the discovery of novel antimicrobials from cellulolytic Clostridia.

What degree is required for this position?

A PhD in microbiology, biochemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field is required.

What is the expected salary range for this position?

The expected hiring range is $60,315.00 – $85,192.50.

What documents are required for application?

A resume is required for the application.

What benefits does Northeastern University offer?

Northeastern University offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement, and commuting & transportation.