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Structural Biologist information

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How much do structural biologist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural biologist in California is $35.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.70 and $39.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a structural biologist?

To thrive as a Structural Biologist, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and protein chemistry, usually supported by a PhD in a relevant field. Proficiency with techniques such as X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), and computational modeling software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are critical soft skills for interpreting complex data and collaborating on research projects. These skills are essential for accurately elucidating biomolecular structures, advancing scientific knowledge, and driving innovation in drug discovery and biotechnology.

What are some common challenges structural biologists face when collaborating on interdisciplinary research projects?

Structural biologists often work closely with computational scientists, chemists, and clinicians to interpret and apply structural data. A common challenge in these collaborations is effectively communicating complex structural information to colleagues outside the field, ensuring that findings are accurately understood and integrated into broader research goals. Additionally, coordinating project timelines and data sharing across diverse teams can require strong organizational skills and adaptability. Building mutual understanding and setting clear expectations at the outset can help overcome these challenges and foster productive interdisciplinary work.

What is the difference between Structural Biologist vs Molecular Biologist?

AspectStructural BiologistMolecular Biologist
Required CredentialsTypically a Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, or related fieldsUsually a Ph.D. or Master's in biology, biochemistry, or related areas
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, biotech companies focusing on 3D structuresLabs, research institutions, focusing on gene and protein functions
Employer & Industry UsagePharmaceuticals, biotech, academia, structural research

While both roles involve biological research, Structural Biologists specialize in determining the 3D structures of biomolecules, often using techniques like X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM. Molecular Biologists focus on understanding gene and protein functions at the molecular level. The two roles often overlap but differ mainly in their focus and methods used.

How much does a structural biologist make?

A structural biologist's salary varies based on experience, education, and location, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced professionals with advanced skills in techniques like X-ray crystallography or cryo-EM can earn higher salaries, especially in research or industry settings.

Is structural biology in demand?

Structural biologists are in demand in research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and biotech firms, as their expertise in techniques like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy is essential for drug development and understanding biological mechanisms. The field offers opportunities for employment with advanced degrees and proficiency in specialized tools. Growing interest in personalized medicine and structural analysis continues to drive job opportunities in this area.

What does a structural biologist do?

A structural biologist studies the 3D structures of biological molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and complexes using techniques like X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and cryo-electron microscopy. Their work helps understand how these molecules function and interact, which can inform drug design and disease research. They often work in research labs, collaborating with chemists and biologists, and require strong skills in biochemistry and molecular biology.
Structural Biologist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Structural Biologist job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,899 per year, or $35 per hour.

Scientist II, Structural Biology

Revolution Medicines

Redwood City, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Opportunity:

We are looking for motivated structural biologist to join tour team to support multiple oncology therapeutic programs. The ideal candidate will have previous, hands-on experience in sample preparation, data acquisition and data analysis from both X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM. They will apply their expertise to form compound driven complexes, identify, and optimize crystallization/CryoEM conditions with the aim of determining high resolution structural information to drive small molecule design and mechanistic understanding. We're seeking a team player with enthusiasm to work in an interdisciplinary setting to drive toward new, cutting edge oncology therapeutics. 

Responsibilities

  • Plan and execute experiments with the aim of determining small molecule driven multi-protein complex structures by CryoEM and X-ray crystallography.

  • Perform cryo-EM grid screening, optimization, data collection and refinement to enable high-quality structure determination.

  • Interact with interdisciplinary teams (including chemists, computational chemists, biologists, project teams, and management) and clearly articulate structural data in a broader drug discovery context.

  • Maintain excellent records and communication among internal and external colleagues.

  • Be driven by a desire to be innovative in a high energy, fast paced environment and work collaboratively with a variety of collegues across the organization.

Required Skills, Experience and Education:

  • PhD in structural biology or protein biochemistry or a related scientific discipline with 2-5 years of post-doctoral experience.

  • Hands-on experience and expertise in cryo-EM sample optimization and grid preparation, data collection, map generation, and structure determination.

  • Strong track record of solving challenging CryoEM problems such as preferred orientation, small proteins/complexes, modeling into low resolution maps, or iterative rounds of protein optimization.

  • Hands on experise with modern software packages for data collection, refinement and visualization of structural biology data, and the ability to seamless switch between them based on need (e.g. CryoSPARC, RELION, Phenix, REFMAC, Coot, ChimeraX, Pymol).

  • Excellent written, verbal communication, interpersonal and organization skills.

  • Conscientious team-player interested in a fast-paced biotech environment.

Preferred Skills:

  • Hands-on experience and expertise in protein crystallization, crystal optimization and harvesting for data collection.

  • Experience with biophysical characterization methods, including mass spectrometry, SEC-MALS, DLS, SPR, NMR and thermal shift assays.

  • Experience with protein-protein complexes including antibodies/Fabs, molecular glues, PROTACs, etc.

  • Experience working in a multidisciplinary team environment.

  • Experience in gene construct design, expression and purification of recombinant proteins. 

    #LI-Hybrid  #LI-LN1

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