Postdoctoral Fellow – Ion Channel Biophysics

About the role

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to join Dr. Gucan Dai’s laboratory. The fellow will investigate fundamental mechanisms of ion channels in excitable membranes using a multidisciplinary approach.

Key responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments investigating voltage‑sensing mechanisms of voltage‑gated ion channels.
• Study lipid‑mediated regulation of ion channels and membrane dynamics.
• Utilize patch‑clamp electrophysiology, fluorescence microscopy, and related advanced imaging techniques.
• Integrate structural biology, chemical biology, genetics, and electrophysiology data.
• Maintain and operate cutting‑edge equipment, including frequency‑domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy systems.
• Prepare manuscripts, presentations, and reports for NIH‑funded research.

Required profile

• Ph.D. in biophysics, biochemistry, physiology, or a related field.
• Strong background in ion channel research.
• Experience with patch‑clamp electrophysiology and advanced microscopy techniques is highly desirable.

Required skills

• Patch‑clamp electrophysiology
• Fluorescence microscopy (including TIRF and fluorescence lifetime imaging)
• Patch‑clamp fluorometry (PCF)
• Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET)
• Use of fluorescent non‑canonical amino acids (ncAAs)
• Whole‑cell fluorometry and calcium imaging

What we offer

• 12‑month primary appointment (full‑time, 40 hours/week).
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art electrophysiology and imaging platforms.
• Mentorship in a NIH‑funded, interdisciplinary research environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and publication.