Postdoctoral Researcher – Klem Lab, LSU (Fall 2025)

Klem Lab, Louisiana State University, USA

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Description

Applications are now being welcomed for a postdoctoral research position in the Klem Research Group at Louisiana State University (LSU), scheduled to commence in Fall 2025. This position is fully funded and presents an excellent opportunity for early-career researchers to engage in advanced computational research focused on enzyme function and biocatalyst innovation. The Klem Lab, based in the Department of Biological Sciences, applies interdisciplinary approaches that merge quantum chemistry, molecular dynamics, machine learning, and biochemical design. The group’s work contributes to fields such as sustainable chemistry, biocatalysis, and drug resistance research. 

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities:

• Designing and applying computational techniques for studying enzyme catalysis, including QM/MM modeling and electrostatic analyses.
• Contributing to the development and refinement of QMzyme, an open-source toolkit written in Python for enzyme modeling at scale.
• Modeling and simulating multi-enzyme complexes for environmental and catalytic applications.
• Performing molecular simulations, structure-based mutation analysis, and conformational sampling using semiempirical and classical methods.
• Collaborating with experimental research teams across national and international institutions to validate computational findings.
• Guiding and mentoring undergraduate and graduate researchers in relevant computational tools and biochemical concepts.
• Assisting in manuscript preparation, conference presentations, and research proposal development. 

Qualification

Minimum Eligibility Requirements:

• A Ph.D. degree in chemistry, biophysics, biochemistry, computational biology, or a similar field (to be awarded before the start date).
• Proven expertise in molecular simulations, particularly quantum mechanics (QM), QM/MM, or molecular dynamics (MD) involving biomolecules.
• Proficiency in Python programming and familiarity with best practices in scientific software development.
• Evidence of research productivity through peer-reviewed publications or contributions to open-source projects.
• Strong ability to function both independently and as part of a team. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Background in enzyme catalysis, biocatalysis, or rational enzyme design.
• Hands-on experience with tools such as Gaussian, ORCA, AMBER, GROMACS, PyMol, or VMD.
• Interest in research areas involving sustainability, plastic degradation, or antibiotic resistance.
• Strong communication skills in scientific writing and presentation. 

Position Details:

1. The initial appointment will be for one year, with possible renewal subject to performance and funding.
2. The position is fully supported by faculty startup funds, with a competitive salary and full benefits.
3. The start date is flexible, but preference will be given to candidates available by early Fall 2025. 

Application Procedure – Step-by-Step:

Step 1: Prepare a recent CV and a short cover letter explaining your research background and interest in the Klem Lab.

Step 2: Include the names and contact details of 2–3 references.

Step 3: Email the documents to Dr. Heidi Klem at:
📧 heidiklem@lsu.edu 

Step 4: Submit the same materials via the official LSU job portal using the link below:
🔗 Apply Officially Here 

Commitment to Inclusion:

The Klem Lab fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and curiosity-driven research culture. Applications are strongly encouraged from candidates of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.