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Structural Biology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Biologist

Bethesda, MD

$85K - $141K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in structural biology methods, independent data analysis, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary research teams. This is a full-time, on-site ...

Biologist

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$85K - $141K/yr

The ideal candidate brings strong expertise in structural biology methods, independent data analysis, and effective collaboration with multidisciplinary research teams. This is a full-time, on-site ...

You have a PhD in computational biology, biophysics, structural biology, molecular biology, or a related biological field with 3+ years of post-doctoral or industry research experience * You have ...

You have a PhD in computational biology, biophysics, structural biology, molecular biology, or a related biological field with 3+ years of post-doctoral or industry research experience * You have ...

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Structural Biology information

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How much do structural biology jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for structural biology in the United States is $23.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying field in biology?

Within biology, specialized fields such as biomedical research, pharmaceutical development, and biotechnology tend to offer the highest salaries, especially for roles like senior scientists, research directors, or biotech executives. Advanced degrees, expertise in molecular techniques, and leadership skills often contribute to higher compensation in these areas.

Is structural biology in demand?

Structural biology is a growing field with demand in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and academic research for understanding molecular mechanisms. Professionals often need skills in techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and molecular modeling. Job opportunities are available in research institutions, biotech companies, and drug development firms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Structural Biology position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Structural Biology, you need a strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and physics, generally supported by an advanced degree (MS or PhD) in a related field. Proficiency with specialized software for molecular modeling (such as PyMOL or Chimera), as well as hands-on experience with technologies like X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and cryo-electron microscopy, is essential. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and collaborative communication are crucial soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are key for accurately determining biomolecular structures and contributing valuable insights to biomedical research and drug discovery.

What biology jobs pay over $100k?

In structural biology, roles such as senior research scientist, principal investigator, or biotech director often have salaries exceeding $100,000 annually. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive research experience, and skills in techniques like X-ray crystallography or cryo-electron microscopy.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Structural Biology?

Professionals in Structural Biology commonly spend their days designing and conducting experiments to analyze the three-dimensional structures of biological macromolecules using techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM, or NMR spectroscopy. They often collaborate with interdisciplinary teams—including biochemists, computational modelers, and pharmaceutical researchers—to interpret data and inform research directions. In addition to laboratory work, significant time is dedicated to data analysis, preparing research presentations, and staying up to date with scientific literature. This dynamic environment requires flexibility, technical expertise, and an eagerness to solve complex scientific problems.

What does a structural biologist do?

A structural biologist studies the 3D structures of biological molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, and complexes to understand their functions. They use techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, often working in research labs or academic settings to analyze molecular interactions and inform drug design.

What is a Structural Biology job?

A Structural Biology job involves studying the molecular structure and function of biological macromolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, to understand their roles in cellular processes. Professionals in this field use techniques like X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, and NMR spectroscopy to determine molecular structures. These roles are common in academic research, pharmaceutical development, and biotechnology companies, contributing to drug discovery and disease research.

More about Structural Biology jobs
What cities are hiring for Structural Biology jobs? Cities with the most Structural Biology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Biology jobs? The most popular types of Structural Biology jobs are:
What states have the most Structural Biology jobs? States with the most job openings for Structural Biology jobs include:
Infographic showing various Structural Biology job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,717 per year, or $23.4 per hour.
Postdoctoral Research Associate - Structural Biology

Postdoctoral Research Associate - Structural Biology

St. Jude Children's Research Hospital

Memphis, TN • On-site

$72K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


St. Jude Children's Research Hospital rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

61st of 1,004 rated hospitals


Job description

A postdoctoral research associate position is available in the lab of Tanja Mittag in the Department of Structural Biology.
Project Description:
The Mittag lab invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to work on structures of the tumor suppressor and ubiquitin ligase component SPOP. We have recently solved the first cryo-EM structures of full-length SPOP (Cuneo et al. Mol Cell 2023), and they have revealed interfaces that had not recently been observed in structures of smaller constructs. Importantly, these interfaces are lined with cancer mutations whose molecular mechanisms were not previously understood, but now provide molecular explanations for pathophysiological mechanisms. We have also revealed that certain mutations lead to large changes in quaternary assembly. The project provides opportunities for characterizing structures of SPOP complexes with additional ligase subunits and of disease mutants with altered structures. The implications of these structural changes will be characterized via in vitro biochemical and in cell functional assays.
Position Responsibilities:
The successful candidate will help shape the direction of the research and use will use cryo-EM and in vitro biophysical and biochemical studies to characterize SPOP structure and function. The candidate will interface with trainees and staff scientists in the Mittag lab and with collaborators in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment that will support their career development.
Minimum Education and/or Training:
The successful candidate should have a Ph.D. in in vitro structural biology, protein biochemistry or biophysics. The candidate should demonstrate an academic record of excellence, and a strong interest in the growing field of biomolecular condensates. Experience with cryo-EM would be highly valuable to capitalize on the opportunities in this project.
About the lab and St. Jude:
The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative laboratory focused on elucidating mechanisms and function of biomolecular condensates and ubiquitin ligase function in the Department of Structural Biology, with access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and expertise in cryo-EM, NMR spectroscopy, X-ray crystallography, single molecule techniques, protein technology, and microscopy.
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital is a world-class research institution dedicated to pediatric cancer and other catastrophic diseases of childhood. The first and only National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center devoted solely to children. Our 300 faculty work across the spectrum of basic, translational, clinical, and population science in a highly collaborative multidisciplinary environment that includes a Nobel laureate and members of the National Academy of Science and the National Academy of Medicine. St. Jude is ranked on Fortune Magazine's "Best Workplaces in Health Care & Biopharma" and Glassdoor's "Best Places to Work," and is located in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a vibrant and friendly city at the historic American crossroads of music, trade, food and culture.
We are in pursuit of the brightest minds in biomedical sciences, individuals poised to contribute to our research progress. Other than access to top-quality scientists and mentors, as a postdoctoral trainee at St. Jude, you will have:
  • A Blend of Academic Freedom and Industrial Efficiency: Access to shared resources and facilities led by expert scientists, coupled with cutting-edge technology, accelerates research productivity.
  • Customized Professional and Career Growth: Experience specifically designed programs to enhance professional growth and career readiness empowering postdocs for success beyond their training. This includes access to grant writing workshops, individual development plans, teaching and mentoring opportunities, non-research career advancement programs, professional development allowance, and so much more.
  • Competitive Compensation: Embark on your journey with a competitive salary starting at $72,500 a year, comprehensive benefits and generous relocation assistance, reflecting our commitment to recognize and invest in talent
  • A Sense of Community: St. Jude fosters a vibrant postdoc community that supports a well-balanced life. A dynamic environment promotes connections and camaraderie among postdocs from all backgrounds.

St. Jude is an Equal Opportunity Employer
No Search Firms
St. Jude Children's Research Hospital does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. Please do not call or email. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee or other representative at St. Jude via email, the internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written search agreement in place and approved by HR will result in no fee being paid in the event the candidate is hired by St. Jude.

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