Post Doc - Open Rank

UMass Chan Medical School; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A research institution is seeking a motivated postdoctoral scholar to join a dynamic lab focused on developing gene therapies for neurological diseases. The position requires a PhD in molecular biology or a related field and offers opportunities for career development in a collaborative environment. Responsibilities include designing experiments, collaborating on projects, and contributing to research publications. Applicants should be skilled in both experimental techniques and bioinformatics.

Qualifications

• PhD required in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience, or related biological/biomedical science.
• Experience in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models.
• Skills in bioinformatics or omics analysis are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments.
• Analyze and interpret data.
• Collaborate with team members and partners.
• Prepare manuscripts and present findings.
• Assist in lab operation and maintain records.

Skills

Molecular biology

Genetics

Immunology

Neuroscience

Bioinformatics

Omics analysis

Experimental skills

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience, or related field

Job description

Research Focus and Environment

One postdoctoral scholar position is immediately available in the Ling lab in the Department of Genetic and Cellular Medicine (GCM), Horae Gene Therapy Center at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School (UMass Chan). The GCM, consisting of investigators from different backgrounds and research expertise, provides a highly dynamic and collaborative environment, with a common goal of developing gene and cell therapies for diseases with no other treatments.

The Ling Lab was established at GCM in 2024, focusing on developing innovative gene therapies for neurological and mitochondrial diseases. Our active research projects include:

• Gene editing in mitochondrial DNA: we use base editing technologies to create mouse models for gene mutations in the mitochondrial DNA, and develop gene therapies targeting the most frequent pathogenic variants.
• Gene therapy for vestibular schwannoma: we engineer novel gene therapies to slow vestibular schwannoma growth and prevent hearing loss. We leverage multi-omics patient data and develop patient-derived 3D tumoroid models to accelerate the development of an effective and safe gene therapy for the patients.

The lab is currently supported by NIH, NF Northeast Foundation, and UMass Chan startup fund. For more details, please visit: https://www.umassmed.edu/qlinglab/

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments.
• Analyze and interpret data.
• Collaborate with team members, graduate students, and external partners to execute projects.
• Engage in project and journal discussions.
• Prepare manuscripts, present findings at conferences, and contribute to grant writing.
• Stay current with advances in mitochondrial biology and gene therapy technologies.
• Assist in lab operation, and maintain organized and detailed lab records.

Qualifications

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience, or related biological/biomedical science.
• Highly motivated to apply skills towards developing gene therapies.
• Ability to conduct experiments in both in vitro and in vivo models.
• Skills in bioinformatics or omics analysis are highly desirable.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Excellent experimental and analytical skills, and careful research-record keeping.
• Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Career Development

The Ling lab values collaboration and personal growth. We work with you to tailor your training to meet your career goals, either in academia or industry, while you contribute to the growth of the lab. The goal of the Ling lab is to use our knowledge and passion to help young scientists build scientific skills and to find hope for families with genetic diseases.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds.

Life in Worcester

Worcester is located in central Massachusetts. It is an affordable and vibrant city, offering a variety of restaurants featuring different cuisines, as well as a rich array of art, music, and outdoor activities. The city is one hour driving distance to both Boston and Providence, RI.

To Apply

Please submit a cover letter and CV listing three references by email to Qinglan Ling at [e-mail].

The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.