The Cheng Zhang Lab (https://www.czhanglab.org/) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine (Pittsburgh, PA, USA) is seeking motivated postdoctoral researchers to join our NIH- and biotech-funded projects.

Our core research focuses on G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). We aim to elucidate their signaling mechanisms and translate these molecular insights into novel therapeutic strategies. In our prior research, we have combined cryo-EM, cell-based signaling assays, and computational modeling and simulations to study GPCRs activated by neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, bioactive lipids, and chemokines. Recent publications include Nature (2025, PMID: 40533560), Science Advances (2024, PMID: 38198545), Nature Communications (2023, PMID: 37709767; 2022, PMID: 35217703). A full list of publications can be found at https://www.czhanglab.org/publications.

We are currently expanding our focus to apply these deep structural insights toward drug discovery and development through collaborations with experts in computational biology, immunology, and protein engineering.  Current efforts include: 1) identifying novel GPCR modulators with unique pharmacological properties through structure-based drug design and drug screening approaches, and 2) developing antibodies targeting orphan GPCRs and immune-regulatory receptors expressed on macrophages and T cells.

Environment and benefits:

We offer a collaborative, supportive, and career-focused environment. Postdocs are encouraged to pursue diverse career paths, including promotion to research faculty, transition to independent academic positions, or biotech industry careers through our extensive network of collaborators and partners. The University of Pittsburgh consistently ranks among the top NIH-funded institutions in the U.S., and Pittsburgh is frequently recognized as one of the most livable cities in the country. We support J-1 or H1-b types of visa and can provide support for green card applications for outstanding postdoctoral researchers.

If you’re passionate about GPCR pharmacology, biology, or novel approaches in modern drug discovery, we’d love to hear from you. Interested candidates should apply through the University of Pittsburgh talent center (position 25005772): https://cfopitt.taleo.net/careersection/pitt_faculty_external_pd/jobdetail.ftl?job=25005772&tz=GMT-04%3A00&tzname=America%2FNew_York)

We welcome applicants with expertise in one or more of the following areas:

1. Cryo-EM: Expertise in single particle cryo-EM analysis of membrane proteins. Our lab has regular access to multiple EM instruments, including a Titan Krios at the University of Pittsburgh.
2. GPCR Pharmacology: Experience with cell-based signaling assays (e.g., BRET based assays or other high-throughput drug screening assays), or single-cell imaging and sequencing techniques.
3. Computational Biology: Background in ligand docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, or protein and antibody design.
   
   Candidates for this position must have a PhD degree in a relevant research field and have effective writing and communication skills.