Postdoctoral Research Associate (CRISPR mechanisms and RNA detection)

Posted on: July 27, 2026

Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey invites applications for a postdoctoral research position in Dr. Tina Liu’s lab, located within the Center for Advanced Biotechnology & Medicine (CABM) and the Department of Molecular Biology & Biochemistry (MBB) in Piscataway, NJ. Our lab investigates molecular mechanisms of antiphage immunity in bacteria and archaea, focusing on Type III CRISPR nucleotide signaling pathways. We also harness fundamental insights into CRISPR to develop tools for fast, sensitive, and versatile nucleic acid detection and disease diagnosis.

We seek a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Associate to join our research team. This individual will have the opportunity to develop and pursue novel research directions that align with our lab’s overall research interests in CRISPR biology and technology. As an early member of a growing lab, the successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the lab’s scientific direction and culture. Candidates with a background in protein/RNA biochemistry, biophysics, protein engineering, molecular biology, structural biology, or membrane biology are strongly encouraged to apply.

For detailed descriptions of current projects and more information about our lab, please visit our lab website: https://sites.rutgers.edu/tina-liu-lab/

Position Responsibilities:

Under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Tina Liu, the Postdoctoral Associate will:

  • Develop and pursue research projects investigating the function and mechanism, and/or applications of Type III CRISPR-Cas signaling effectors.
  • Write, edit, and publish papers in peer-reviewed journals.
  • Coordinate collaborations to achieve project goals.
  • Prepare and apply for postdoctoral fellowships, as well as other relevant funding opportunities.
  • Mentor, train, and supervise students, technicians, and other junior personnel in the laboratory.
  • Present research at local and/or international conferences.
  • Keep detailed records of research activity using an electronic laboratory notebook.
  • Contribute to general laboratory management, as well as the maintenance of laboratory equipment.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Must have a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Cell Biology, Microbiology, Structural Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field by the start date of the position
  • The candidate should be self-motivated, organized, able to work well as part of a team, and possess excellent oral and written communication skills

Start date:

As soon as possible. Review of applications is ongoing and will continue until the position is filled.

Instructions to applicants:

Candidates should submit their application at the following link: https://jobs.rutgers.edu/postings/267468

Required application materials:

  1. CV
  2. Cover letter stating your research background/achievements, motivation for this position, and potential project areas you are interested in.
  3. Contact information for 3 Professional references (email and phone number).

Candidates are also strongly encouraged to email Dr. Tina Liu at [email protected] to discuss the position either before or shortly after submitting an application through the portal above.