Research Specialist II - Orth Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we're unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

Lab Overview

The Orth Laboratory, led by HHMI Investigator Dr. Kim Orth at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, investigates the molecular mechanisms by which pathogenic bacteria manipulate host cell signaling and immune responses. The lab's research integrates microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and animal models to understand host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level — with the goal of gaining novel molecular insight into eukaryotic signaling systems. For more information, visit https://labs.utsouthwestern.edu/orth-lab

About the Role

We are seeking an expert structural biologist to join the Orth Lab as a Research Specialist II at UT Southwestern Medical Center. This is an excellent opportunity for an accomplished scientist with a strong publication record in CryoEM and/or X-ray crystallography to own independent research projects, serve as the lab's structural biology resource, and mentor other lab members. The ideal candidate brings a full structural biology toolbox, deep expertise in membrane proteins or larger molecular structures, and a passion for advancing research at the intersection of structural biology and molecular pathogenesis.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should submit the following materials directly through the HHMI Careers portal:

• Curriculum vitae

• Cover letter stating research interests and career goals

• Contact information for three professional references

What We Provide

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive HHMI health and wellness benefits.

• Autonomy to pursue independent research projects within the scope of the lab's scientific focus.

• Opportunity to contribute to high-impact peer-reviewed publications.

• A highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

• Access to outstanding core facilities and scientific resources including state-of-the-art structural biology equipment.

• Mentorship opportunities — serving as the lab's structural biology expert and resource for other scientists.

What You'll Do

• Lead and execute independent structural biology research projects, including CryoEM and X-ray crystallography studies.

• Work with membrane proteins and larger molecular structures to advance the lab's research on host-pathogen interactions.

• Serve as the structural biology expert and resource for other lab members conducting structural work.

• Document structural molecules and maintain rigorous records of experimental data and methods.

• Prepare and contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts and publications as a key contributor.

• Mentor and train other lab members in structural biology techniques and workflows.

• Collaborate with postdocs, graduate students, and other scientists within and outside the lab.

What You Bring

• A PhD in Structural Biology, Biophysics, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.

• Published CryoEM and/or X-ray crystallography studies — a strong publication record is required.

• A comprehensive structural biology toolbox with hands-on expertise across multiple structural techniques.

• Excellent collaboration and communication skills — ability to serve as a technical resource for the broader lab team.

• Self-directed and independent — able to own and drive research projects with minimal supervision.

• Experience working with membrane proteins or larger molecular structures — strongly preferred.

• Interest in and enthusiasm for mentoring junior lab members and graduate students.

• Familiarity with host-pathogen interactions or molecular pathogenesis research.

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances or other hazardous materials.

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

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