Post-Doctoral Fellow

University of Colorado Anschutz
Department: SOM, Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics
Job Title: Post-Doctoral Fellow (Term-limited, 1 year)
Position #:00845906 – Requisition #:39257
Job Summary:
The laboratory of Dr. Olivia Rissland seeks to hire a Post-Doctoral Fellow for a one-year appointment to work on leading edge questions in RNA biology pursued as part of our research program outlined below. Our lab is in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics and part of the RNA Bioscience Initiative at the University of Colorado School of Medicine . Our lab studies how co-translational processes regulate gene expression and is newly focused on leveraging these insights to create novel molecular tools.
One long-term goal of our research program is to understand the molecular mechanism of 2A peptides. These short 20-22 amino acid sequences enable a unique co-translational event – the skipping of a peptide bond – and thus the production of multiple, separate peptides from one coding region. The postdoctoral fellow will investigate the molecular mechanism, using a suite of tools including cryo-electron microscopy. The fellow will also initiate a new project to build a “second-generation,” tunable 2A peptide, which will involve high-throughput microscopy screening and massively parallel reporter assays. Ideal candidates will have expertise in structural biology. Candidates will be expected to plan and execute independent work, write and submit fellowship applications (if applicable), assist in the writing and publication of experimental results, and contribute positively towards the atmosphere and culture of the lab.
Key Responsibilities:

Lead an independent research project to define the molecular and structural mechanisms of 2A peptide function and develop novel molecular tools based on these insights.
Design and execute experiments using structural biology approaches (required), including cryo-EM, in combination with mammalian cell culture, RNA biochemistry, nucleic acid purification and sequencing, genome engineering, computational biology, and molecular genetics.
Analyze and interpret complex structural and biochemical datasets to advance the lab’s research objectives.
Develop new technical expertise as needed, including gaining proficiency in RNA biology and related methodologies.
Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, grant applications (internal and external), and scientific presentations for meetings and conferences.
Mentor and train junior scientists in experimental design, data analysis, and professional scientific development.
Work Location:
Onsite – this role is expected to work onsite and is located in Aurora, CO.
Why Join Us:
Our department conducts research across a wide biological scale for fundamental scientific understanding with applications to many disease contexts. The overarching goal is to reach a level of molecular insight that helps develop therapeutic approaches to disease.
As biochemists and molecular geneticists, we are amid an unprecedented time of discovery - our conception of the molecular biology of cells is going from the equivalent of grainy black-and-white to high-resolution technicolor. From deciphering the choreography of transcription complexes, chromosomes, and RNA molecules within cells to developing novel approaches to 3D molecular structure determination to understanding how viruses hijack a cell’s machinery and alter its metabolome, the researchers in Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics (BMG) are at the forefronts of their fields both conceptually and technologically.
Why work for the University?
The University of Colorado offers a comprehensive benefits package. To see what benefits are available for Post-Doctoral Fellows, please visit:

Payroll & Benefits Orientation for Post-Doctoral Fellows | University of Colorado (cu.edu)
Post-Doctoral Benefits Guide
There are many additional perks & programs with the CU Advantage.
Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.

A Ph.D. in structural biology or a related field
Strong record of productivity as evidenced by peer-reviewed publications in internationally recognized journals
Experience in biochemistry, structural, and molecular biology
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Excellent communication skills
Demonstrated scientific curiosity and strong intrinsic motivation to pursue innovative research questions.
Capacity to design, direct, and execute independent research projects with a high degree of initiative and accountability.
Effective mentoring and leadership practices to support the development of junior laboratory members.
Strong interpersonal and communication competencies, with the ability to collaborate productively within a collegial and interdisciplinary research environment. Commitment to contributing positively to laboratory culture and the broader departmental community.
Ability to prepare and submit competitive fellowship applications and contribute to scholarly publications.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship. We are unable to provide work visa sponsorship or employment authorization for this position now or in the future.
How to Apply:
For full consideration, please submit the following document(s):

Statement of past research (one page)
Statement of your interest in the lab’s research program and your long term plans (one page)
Curriculum vitae / Resume
Three professional references including name, phone number (mobile number if appropriate), and email address
Start date availability
Applications are accepted electronically ONLY at www.cu.edu/cu-careers.
Questions should be directed to: Olivia Rissland, Olivia.rissland@gmail.com
Screening of Applications Begins:
This position may be seeking multiple candidates. Positions will remain open until filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and candidates may be contacted for interviews throughout the posting period. Upon candidate(s) selection, the posting will be closed, and no further applications will be accepted.
Anticipated Pay Range:
The starting salary range ( or hiring range ) for this position has been established as HIRING RANGE:
$62,232 to $75,564
The above salary range ( or hiring range ) represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation unless it is non-exempt.
Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Colorado provides generous leave, health plans and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.
Total Compensation Calculator: http://www.cu.edu/node/153125
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:
The University of Colorado (CU) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
ADA Statement:
The University will provide reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities throughout the employment application process. To request an accommodation pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, please contact the Human Resources ADA Coordinator at hr.adacoordinator@ucdenver.edu .
Background Check Statement:
The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus is dedicated to ensuring a safe and secure environment for our faculty, staff, students and visitors. To assist in achieving that goal, we conduct background investigations for all prospective employees.
Vaccination Statement:
CU Anschutz strongly encourages vaccination against the COVID-19 virus and other vaccine preventable diseases. If you work, visit, or volunteer in healthcare facilities or clinics operated by our affiliated hospital or clinical partners or by CU Anschutz, you will be required to comply with the vaccination and medical surveillance policies of the facilities or clinics where you work, visit, or volunteer, respectively. In addition, if you work in certain research areas or perform certain safety sensitive job duties, you must enroll in the occupational health medical surveillance program.
Faculty
Job Category
Faculty
Primary Location
Aurora
Department
U0001 -- Anschutz Med Campus or Denver
Schedule
Full-time
Posting Date
Mar 11, 2026
Unposting Date
Ongoing
Posting Contact Name
Olivia Rissland
Posting Contact Email
Olivia.rissland@gmail.com
Position Number
00845906