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Ribosome Profiling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Post Doc Res Assoc

Campus, IL · On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities Scientific vision Ribosome profiling has uncovered nearly 10,000 human microproteins, yet fewer than 1% are functionally characterized, and a substantial fraction appear to localize ...

Post Doc Res Assoc

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities Scientific vision Ribosome profiling has uncovered nearly 10,000 human microproteins, yet fewer than 1% are functionally characterized, and a substantial fraction appear to localize ...

Responsibilities Scientific vision Ribosome profiling has uncovered nearly 10,000 human microproteins, yet fewer than 1% are functionally characterized, and a substantial fraction appear to localize ...

Post Doc Res Assoc

Campus, IL · On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities Scientific vision Ribosome profiling has uncovered nearly 10,000 human microproteins, yet fewer than 1% are functionally characterized, and a substantial fraction appear to localize ...

Post Doc Res Assoc

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$65K - $73K/yr

Responsibilities Scientific vision Ribosome profiling has uncovered nearly 10,000 human microproteins, yet fewer than 1% are functionally characterized, and a substantial fraction appear to localize ...

Ribosome Profiling information

See salary details

$81K

$97.8K

$130K

How much do ribosome profiling jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for ribosome profiling in the United States is $97,844.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs do ribosomes have?

Ribosome profiling is a research technique used to study the activity of ribosomes, which are cellular structures responsible for protein synthesis. Jobs related to this field include molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and laboratory technicians who analyze ribosome behavior, develop protocols, and interpret data using specialized tools and software. These roles often require knowledge of genetics, cell biology, and laboratory techniques.

What does ribosome profiling do?

Ribosome profiling is a technique used to analyze which mRNAs are actively being translated by capturing and sequencing ribosome-protected mRNA fragments. It helps researchers understand gene expression at the translation level and can identify regulatory mechanisms affecting protein synthesis.

What is the difference between Ribosome Profiling vs RNA-Seq Data Analyst?

AspectRibosome ProfilingRNA-Seq Data Analyst
CredentialsBiology, Molecular Biology, or related fields; specialized training in ribosome profiling techniquesBioinformatics, Data Science, or related fields; experience with RNA sequencing data analysis
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, biotech companies, academic institutionsResearch institutions, biotech firms, healthcare organizations
Industry UsageGene expression, translation regulation studiesGene expression profiling, transcriptomics analysis

While both roles involve analyzing genetic data, Ribosome Profiling focuses on studying translation by capturing ribosome positions on mRNA, whereas RNA-Seq Data Analysts analyze overall gene expression levels from RNA sequencing data. The former requires specialized laboratory techniques, while the latter emphasizes bioinformatics skills for large data sets.

What is ribosome profiling?

Ribosome profiling is a powerful technique used in molecular biology to analyze which mRNAs are being translated by ribosomes in a cell at a given time. By sequencing the fragments of mRNA protected by ribosomes, scientists can gain a detailed view of protein synthesis and translation dynamics. This method helps researchers understand gene expression regulation at the translational level and identify novel translated regions in the genome. Ribosome profiling has applications in biotechnology, medicine, and basic biological research.

What jobs use PCR?

Jobs in molecular biology, genetics, and biomedical research often require the use of PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) to amplify DNA samples. Positions such as laboratory technicians, research scientists, and clinical lab technologists routinely perform PCR as part of their workflows, often requiring knowledge of laboratory techniques and access to PCR equipment. Familiarity with PCR is essential for roles involved in genetic analysis, diagnostics, and research development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ribosome Profiling Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ribosome Profiling Specialist, you need a solid background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and next-generation sequencing, typically supported by an advanced degree in a relevant life science field. Familiarity with sequencing platforms, bioinformatics tools (such as R or Python), and experience with ribosome profiling protocols are crucial. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are vital soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating with research teams. These competencies ensure accurate data generation and analysis, driving meaningful insights in translational and gene expression research.

What are some common challenges faced when performing ribosome profiling in a research lab setting?

One of the main challenges in ribosome profiling is ensuring high-quality RNA extraction and minimizing degradation, as compromised RNA can affect the accuracy of sequencing data. Additionally, the process requires careful optimization of nuclease digestion to obtain precise ribosome-protected fragments. Researchers often need to troubleshoot issues with library preparation and sequencing depth, as well as interpret complex data sets. Collaboration with bioinformaticians is common to analyze and visualize large-scale results, making teamwork and communication essential skills in this role.

Is there a demand for molecular biologists?

There is a steady demand for molecular biologists, including those specializing in techniques like ribosome profiling, due to ongoing research in genetics, biotechnology, and healthcare. Employment opportunities are available in academic, pharmaceutical, and biotech industries, often requiring skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and relevant certifications.
Infographic showing various Ribosome Profiling job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,844 per year, or $47 per hour.
Postdoctoral Associate - Cancer Metastasis

Postdoctoral Associate - Cancer Metastasis

Baylor College of Medicine

Houston, TX

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Baylor College of Medicine rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 21 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

53rd of 539 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Summary

The Zhao Lab is a newly established research group at the Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center and the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. mRNA abundance correlates poorly with protein output, yet translational regulation remains one of the most understudied layers of cancer biology. Led by Dr. Na Zhao, the lab studies selective mRNA translation drives cancer progression, shapes the tumor immune ecosystem, and creates therapeutic vulnerabilities in primary tumor and metastatic disease.
The lab combines ribosome profiling, spatial and single-cell omics, immunocompetent mouse tumor models, patient-derived xenografts, and clinical samples to map translation dependencies across tumor evolution. Currently work on the RNA helicase eIF4A has supported the initiation of a clinical trial. The lab is currently funded by NCI, CPRIT, the Susan G. Komen, METAvivor, and Mary Kay Ash Foundation.

Baylor College of Medicine typically follows similar to the NIH stipulated stipend guidelines for Postdoctoral Associates.

Job Duties
  • Designs, executes, and troubleshoots experiments using cell lines, organoids, and immunocompetent mouse tumor models.
  • Performs standard molecular and cellular biology techniques (cloning, qPCR, Western blot, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, IHC).
  • Conducts specialized translation-focused assays such as ribosome profiling, polysome profiling, and reporter-based translation assays.
  • Maintains accurate, organized lab notes and contributes to data management and reagent records.
  • Analyzes, interprets, and presents data at lab meetings, internal seminars, and external conferences.
  • Contributes to manuscript preparation, figures assembly, and grant and fellowship applications.
  • Helps mentor graduate and undergraduate students and supports a collaborative, rigorous lab culture.
  • Provides technical guidance, work direction and training to other lab members on areas of expertise.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
  • MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
  • No experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Ph.D. in cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, cancer biology, immunology, or a related field.
  • Recent PhD graduates or have completed their PhD within the last three years at the time of application.
  • At least one first-author publication (published or in revision).
  • Strong presentation skills and written/verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a small, collaborative team.

Baylor College of Medicine is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action/Equal Access Employer.

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