Postdoctoral Associate in AI-Based Protein Design and Enzyme Engineering at Rutgers University Rutgers University in United States

Rutgers University is recruiting a Postdoctoral Associate in AI-based protein design and enzyme engineering in the Khare Laboratory. The main project focuses on DNA polymerase engineering within a federally funded, multi-institutional collaboration. The lab also supports postdocs who want to develop independent projects aligned with its broader research program in computational enzyme design, de novo protein design, and machine learning models of protein function.

The position is especially suited to candidates who can develop and apply AI/ML methods for protein design and engineering, including sequence redesign, design of function, de novo design, and ML models trained on experimental data. The work integrates high-throughput sequencing data from library screening or directed evolution with physics-based biomolecular modeling, and involves close collaboration with experimental colleagues on AI-ready assays and self-driving experimentation.

Research themes include protein and enzyme design, enzyme stabilization, protein function prediction, and computational methods for biomolecular engineering. The lab’s broader interests also include protein language models, constrained generative diffusion, and other modern computational approaches to enzyme design.

Eligibility highlights: PhD awarded or expected within six months in computational biology, molecular biophysics, biological or physical chemistry, bioinformatics, computer science, or a related field; first-author publications in protein design, engineering, or ML for biology; strong Python skills; and experience with PyTorch and/or JAX. Applicants must also provide a representative code sample or public repository link. Preferred experience includes RFdiffusion, ProteinMPNN, AlphaFold-family tools, protein language models, and prior collaboration with experimentalists.

Funding and appointment: The role is full-time, with salary commensurate with experience. Rutgers lists a minimum salary of 63,968. The appointment is initially for one year and may be renewed depending on performance and funding.

Application window: The posting opened on 2026-05-08 and closes on 2026-07-31, with review beginning immediately and continuing until the position is filled.

How to apply: Apply through the Rutgers HR portal and submit the required application materials, including CV, cover letter, references, research statement, and code sample/public repository link. Questions can be directed to Sagar Khare at [email protected].