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Structural Biologist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Synthires

Biology Research Scientist

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

The role involves applying research expertise across molecular biology, biophysics, structural biology, immunology, neuroscience, genomics, and related disciplines to help improve the scientific ...

Transcripta Bio

Computational Biologist

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... structural edge over conventional approaches. WHAT YOU'LL DO * Develop, maintain, and optimize ... PhD in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Genomics, or a related field with 3+ years of ...

Gilead

Sr Scientist, Structural Chemistry

Foster City, CA · On-site

$169K - $219K/yr

PhD in Structural Biology or related field with postdoctoral training in solving atomic resolution structures of macromolecular complexes * Minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in structural ...

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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.

Biology Research Specialist (Remote | $50-$70/hr)

Synthires

East Irvine, CA • On-site

$80 - $110/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

About the Job

Biology & Biophysics Research Collaborator

Location: Remote (United States)

Engagement Type: Part-Time Contract

Compensation: $80–$110/hour

About the Opportunity

This opportunity is for accomplished Biology and Biophysics researchers interested in contributing to advanced AI research and evaluation projects. The role involves applying research expertise across molecular biology, biophysics, structural biology, immunology, neuroscience, genomics, and related disciplines to help improve the scientific reasoning capabilities of next-generation AI systems.

You will evaluate scientific literature, develop challenging research-level problems, assess AI-generated outputs, and help identify the kinds of errors and reasoning gaps that experienced researchers would recognize immediately.

Ideal Qualifications

• PhD, postdoctoral training, or equivalent research experience in Biology, Biophysics, or a related life sciences discipline.

• Strong publication record, including first-author or co-first-author publications in leading scientific journals.

• Current or recent experience as a PhD candidate, postdoctoral researcher, faculty member, principal scientist, instructor, or industry researcher.

• Deep expertise in one or more areas such as molecular biology, structural biology, immunology, neuroscience, genomics, or biophysics.

• Experience designing experiments, evaluating scientific literature, and interpreting complex research findings.

• Exceptional analytical, scientific reasoning, and communication skills.

• Strong attention to detail and commitment to scientific rigor.

Responsibilities

• Review and evaluate biology and biophysics research papers for scientific rigor, novelty, and validity.

• Author and review challenging biology and biophysics problems used to train and evaluate frontier AI models.

• Assess AI-generated outputs involving experimental design, mechanism prediction, literature interpretation, and scientific reasoning.

• Identify reasoning errors, scientific inaccuracies, and knowledge gaps in model outputs.

• Provide structured feedback to improve AI performance in life sciences domains.

• Collaborate with researchers and subject-matter experts to maintain high evaluation standards.

• Contribute expertise that helps advance the scientific reasoning capabilities of next-generation AI systems.

Engagement Details

• Part-time commitment of up to 20 hours per week.

• Fully remote opportunity.

• Flexible schedule.

• Opportunity to work closely with leading AI research organizations.

Compensation

• Competitive compensation of $80–$110/hour.

• Weekly payments.

• Independent contractor engagement.

Application Process

  1. Submit your resume, publication history, or relevant research background.
  2. Complete any required evaluation or assessment.
  3. Participate in the review process.
  4. Final selection and onboarding.

Apply