Postdoctoral Research Associate – Skinner Lab, Northeastern University, Boston, MA in USA

Summary

The Skinner Lab at Northeastern University in Boston, MA, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Associate to begin in February 2026. The role focuses on conducting basic or applied research in cellular metabolic regulation utilizing advanced metabolomics, proteomics, and molecular biology techniques. The successful applicant must hold a PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a closely related field, along with hands-on experience in metabolomics sample preparation and analysis by LC/MS or GC/MS. Responsibilities include executing experiments, writing research papers and grant proposals, assisting with lab management, and training students. The appointment is for an initial two-year duration with the potential for extension up to an additional one to two years based on performance and funding. Review of applications begins immediately.

Key Facts

Department	Skinner Lab
Position Type	Postdoc
Discipline	Chemistry / Biochemistry / Molecular Biology / Structural Biology
Research Area	Cellular metabolic regulation, metabolomics, proteomics
Degree Required	PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a closely related field
Experience	Hands-on experience with metabolomics sample preparation and measurement by LC/MS or GC/MS. Experience with molecular biology techniques, gene editing (CRISPR), DNA manipulation, and protein chemistry preferred.
Contract Duration	Two years, with potential extension for an additional 1-2 years
Required Documents	Cover letter describing background and specific research interests, Full CV with publication list and PhD completion date, Names and contact information for three references
Employer Address	Boston, MA (Main Campus)

About the Project

The research focuses on uncovering cellular metabolic regulation using basic and applied research methodologies, including modern chromatography, metabolomics, proteomics, and protein biophysical analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in initiating, executing, and completing research and experiments.
• Prepare and write research papers, presentations, and grant proposals.
• Assist in laboratory management and exercise functional supervision over supporting research staff.
• Help train students.

Required Skills

• PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with metabolomics sample preparation and measurement by LC/MS or GC/MS.
• Strong problem-solving, communication, organization, and time management skills.
• Desirable experience in molecular biology techniques (Western blots, qPCR/RNAseq), CRISPR gene editing, DNA manipulation, and protein biophysical analysis.

Who Should Apply

Highly motivated researchers holding a PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a related field, with practical experience in metabolomics sample preparation and LC/MS or GC/MS measurement, looking to expand into advanced metabolomics and proteomics techniques.

Benefits

• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition assistance
• Wellness & life benefits
• Retirement benefits
• Commuting & transportation benefits

About the Employer

Northeastern University is an academic institution located on its main campus in Boston, MA, offering comprehensive employee benefits and equal opportunity employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the intended start date for this position?

The start date is in February 2026.

What is the initial duration of the appointment?

The appointment is initially for two years, with a potential extension of 1 to 2 additional years depending on funding and progress evaluation.

What degree is required to apply?

A PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, or a closely related field is required.

What documents are needed to apply?

Applicants must provide a cover letter detailing their background and research interests, a full CV with publication list and PhD completion date, and names and contact information for three references.