Postdoctoral Fellow

Description

The Gerringer Lab Whitman College is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to study physiological adaptations to high hydrostatic pressures in deep-sea fishes. The lab group explores the physiology and ecology of deep-sea animals across scales, from molecular to organismal. On this project, Dr. Gerringer and the Fellow will work together to understand how high pressures and cold temperatures have influenced the evolution of proteins and enzymes in the deep ocean. Small-angle x-ray scattering (SAXS) will be used to compare the structural biochemistry of key biomolecules from fishes that live across habitat pressures and temperatures. This project will inform new understanding of life in the deep ocean and the interacting effects of temperature and pressure on biological systems. In this position, the Fellow will have the opportunity to conduct impactful research and to develop teaching skills in a collaborative and affirming environment. The initial appointment will be for through July 2027, with opportunity for renewal following depending on the grant period. This is a 1.0 FTE position.

Principal Accountabilities:

• Study pressure adaptation in deep-sea fishes at the molecular level.
• Develop pedagogy skills by teaching guest lectures, mentoring two undergraduate students in research related to the project, and additional teaching opportunities based on the candidate's interests.
• Support data management on the project following lab and NSF guidelines.
• Have the opportunity to participate in a research expedition to collect deep-sea fishes from the Mediterranean Sea.
• Receive funding support to present their research at an international conferences during the grant period.
• Lead the writing of scientific manuscripts on the project for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Communicate progress and challenges at regular project meetings with the PI and with the full grant team.

For more information on the project, please see the National Science Foundation grant description. This postdoctoral position focuses on the structural biochemistry portion of the grant.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Marine Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics or related field
• Laboratory experience expressing and purifying proteins
• Interest in teaching and mentoring undergraduate students
• Enthusiasm for studying deep-sea adaptation and for contributing to a collaborative and inclusive working environment

Preferred Qualifications:

• Ability to collect and analyze small angle x-ray scattering (SAXS/Bio-SAXS) data

Salary:

$61,200

If field work on a research ship is unavailable, the fellow can still fully engage with this position and all interested applicants are encouraged to apply. To support the fellow's growth and long-term career goals, we will co-develop a written mentoring agreement to discuss goals, needs for a safe and inclusive working environment, and support resources.

Application:

For full consideration, please apply by November 1, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted after this date until the position is filled.

To apply, go to The online application will prompt you to submit the following required materials:

• Cover Letter (1-2 pages describing your interest in the position and how your experiences relate to the posted qualifications)
• A current CV
• Names and contact details for two or more professional references. References will be contacted only for those candidates who are invited to interview for the position.

The position start date is flexible between Nov. 20, 2026 and Feb. 1, 2027.

For any questions, please contact Mackenzie Gerringer via email at View email address on click.appcast.io.

Whitman College offers a competitive benefits package that is designed to attract qualified candidates and retain talented employees. Full-time employees enjoy the following benefits: Medical/Dental/Vision Insurances; basic life, accidental death and dismemberment and long term disability insurances with the capability to elect additional voluntary coverage; 403(b) Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with a matching contribution after eligibility requirements are met; employee tuition waiver for two Whitman courses per semester; and an Employee Assistance Program. New faculty receive a relocation stipend for moving expenses based on the distance of relocation. Benefit offerings and eligibility described reflect current offerings and may be subject to change in accordance with College polices and plan documents.