Postdoctoral Researcher

Postdoc and graduate positions in natural product biochemistryDuke University School of Medicine, Department of Biochemistry, Yokoyama LabNIH-funded postdoc and graduate positions are available in Kenichi Yokoyama’s lab (https://sites.duke.edu/yokoyamalab/) in one or more of the following areas: 1. Metalloenzymes in natural product and cofactor biosynthesis. 2. Biochemistry of fungal cell wall biosynthesis and antifungal action/development.  Research focus:Understanding the biosynthesis and mechanisms of action of natural products is critical for their development into next-generation therapeutics. The Yokoyama laboratory investigates the functional and mechanistic biochemistry of natural products (Fig. 1) and enzymes (Figs. 2 and 3) to enable their discovery, optimization, and therapeutic application. Our overarching goal is to achieve a comprehensive understanding of natural product and cofactor biosynthesis and function, with particular emphasis on pathways that involve functionally unique (metallo)enzymes. To address these questions, we employ an interdisciplinary approach that integrates chemistry, biochemistry, and biology. Specifically, we combine functional and mechanistic enzymology, chemoenzymatic synthesis of small molecules and peptides, various spectroscopic techniques (NMR, EPR, etc.), structural biology, bioinformatics, and bacterial and fungal genetics.1. Metalloenzymes in natural product and cofactor biosynthesis. We study the functions and mechanisms of metalloenzymes (Fig. 2) involved in cofactor and natural product biosynthesis, with applications in the discovery and development of novel bioactive compounds. While a major focus of the lab is radical SAM enzymes, we also pursue projects involving non-heme iron enzymes. Projects typically integrate discovery-oriented research with rigorous mechanistic characterization to ensure both novelty and depth. (e.g., Nature Chemistry 2026 and JACS 2024).2. Fungal cell wall biosynthesis and antifungal action. We investigate the biochemistry and mechanisms of fungal cell wall biosynthetic enzymes, with current emphasis on polysaccharide synthases and their inhibitors (Fig. 3). This work is conducted in close collaboration with the structural biology laboratory of Prof. Seok-Yong Lee in the same department. Our group focuses on biochemical and mycological aspects, including the development of novel in vitro and in vivo assays to obtain mechanistic insights, as well as chemoenzymatic development of antifungals (e.g., Nature 2026 and Biochemistry 2020).Training Environment and Qualifications: We are seeking postdoctoral candidates with a strong background in bioorganic/bioinorganic chemistry or synthetic organic chemistry. Duke University School of Medicine provides an outstanding training environment and has a strong record of alumni success in both academic and industrial careers. Postdoctoral fellows and graduate students in the Yokoyama lab will gain hands-on experience with biochemical techniques and engage in hypothesis-driven research at the interface of enzymology, natural product chemistry, and chemical biology.Application Instructions: To apply, please send a cover letter describing your research interests and career goals, a curriculum vitae, and the names of three references to ken.yoko@duke.edu. For additional information about the lab, please visit: https://sites.duke.edu/yokoyamalab/. Informal inquiries are welcome.