Synthetic Biology Postdoc Jobs in Springfield, MA

Title: Assistant Professor of Biochemistry - Protein Homeostasis

Executive Area: Academic Affairs

College/School/MBU: College of Natural Sciences

Department: Biochemistry/Molecular Biology

Work Location: Amherst

Schedule: Full time

Work Arrangement: Onsite

Job Summary

The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst invites applications for a full time tenure-track position at the Assistant Professor rank. The successful candidate will also be a part of the Institute for Applied Life Sciences (IALS), which has a primary goal of developing translational research programs, fostering interactions with industry, and training of an applied life sciences workforce.

Essential Functions

We are interested in any aspect of molecular or biochemical processes using quantitative, computational, or structural approaches broadly defined. Of particular focus is the identification of innovative candidates who are exploring questions focused on the synthesis, folding, degradation and trafficking of proteins, collectively referred to as protein homeostasis, focusing on human health or disease. This translational focus can be specific (e.g. Alzheimer's Disease, Cystic Fibrosis, Gaucher's) or general such as neurodegeneration, cancer, metabolic or protein aggregation.

Candidates with research interests that augment our existing strengths in protein homeostasis at the Department and University level are especially sought (https://www.umass.edu/biochem/; https://www.umass.edu/m2m/research-themes/protein-homeostasis). New faculty members will be able to take full advantage of the IALS substantial investments in campus infrastructure and core facilities (http://www.umass.edu/ials/core-facilities). The successful candidates will have a Ph.D., postdoctoral experience, and outstanding potential to build a vibrant, active research program and actively contribute to teaching at both the undergraduate and graduate level.

This is a full-time (9‑month academic year) tenure‑track position. The successful candidate will have a Ph.D., postdoctoral experience, and outstanding potential to build a vibrant, active research program and to teach at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Other Functions

Work collaboratively and effectively to promote teamwork, equality and inclusiveness.

Work in partnership with colleagues within the CNS community and across the campus to support the Dean’s strategic priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned in support of the mission and goals of the College of Natural Sciences.

Minimum Qualifications

We are seeking talented applicants qualified for an assistant professor position. Under exceptional circumstances, highly qualified candidates at other ranks may receive consideration. Candidates must have a Ph.D. or equivalent in Life Sciences or a related field with relevant post‑doctoral experience.

Additional Details

Contributions to the University’s Values and Strategic Goals:

Candidates may be invited to describe how their work aligns with the university’s values and strategic goals, found in our Inclusive Excellence: College of Natural Sciences: UMass Amherst, and For the Common Good - 2024-2034 : Strategic Plan: UMass Amherst.

These reflections offer insight into how applicants foster respectful collaboration, support student success, and contribute to an inclusive academic environment. This information is not used to exclude candidates, but to better understand their potential to advance departmental and institutional priorities. Search committees may request these reflections within the cover letter, teaching or research statements, as appropriate.

Working Conditions

Work is performed in a standard office or indoor university environment and involves minimal physical exertion.

Work Schedule and Work Arrangement

Anticipated start date of January 31, 2027.

Monday - Friday, 40 hours a week.

Salary Information

It is expected that the salary range for this position is between $79,350 and $117,448. Please note:

The low-end of the pay range in all faculty searches at the University of Massachusetts Amherst is the minimum salary for the rank included in the collective bargaining agreement between the University and the Massachusetts Society of Professors, UMass Amherst/MTA/NEA.

The high-end of the pay range reflects an increase above the median of salaries at this rank within the department for faculty who may have multiple years of faculty experience.

The specific pay for this position will be determined by the University based on consideration of all relevant factors when and if it decides to extend an offer of employment.

Special Instructions for Applicants

Review of applications will begin on June 22, 2026, and will continue until a suitable candidate pool has been identified.

Along with the application, please submit a (1) cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae, (3) research statement, (4) teaching statement, (5) contact information for three (3) or more professional references.

The cover letter should generally describe your interest and qualifications for the position in a single page.

The research statement of less than 3 pages should cover your research goals for the next 5 years.

The teaching statement should include a description of any former teaching experience, information about your experiences, and approaches to mentoring lab members and students.

Contact information will be used to solicit letters of recommendation about the research, teaching, and mentoring trajectory of the applicant.