Postdoctoral Scholar in Visual System Neurobiology & Multi-Omics

University of California - Los Angeles (UCLA); Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 69,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) invites applications for a fully funded Postdoctoral Scholar in Bioinformatics of Neurodevelopment and Neurodegeneration. The role leverages single-cell multiomics, spatial transcriptomics, and computational modeling to decode visual system development and degeneration.

Applicants should have a Ph.D. in a related field and strong molecular biology and bioinformatics experience, with opportunities to lead high-impact projects and contribute to

Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Systems Biology, Computational Biology, or a related field.
• Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques and bioinformatic workflows for single-cell or high-dimensional datasets.
• Demonstrated scientific productivity and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with viral vector engineering (AAV), CRISPR, spatial transcriptomics, electrophysiology, or calcium imaging is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects using multi-omic profiling and viral targeting strategies.
• Perform standard molecular and cellular neuroscience assays (construct design, cell culture, immunohistochemistry, Western blot).
• Execute bioinformatic analyses on high-throughput single-cell and spatial datasets.
• Prepare manuscripts, assist with grants, and present findings at conferences.

Skills

Molecular biology

Bioinformatics workflows

Single-cell & spatial data analysis

Research leadership

Written & verbal communication

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience or related

Tools

AAV viral vectors

CRISPR gene-editing

Spatial transcriptomics

Job description

Position overview

Position title: Postdoctoral Scholar in Bioinformatics of Neurodevelopment and Neurodegeneration

Salary range: The posted UC salary scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step at appointment. The salary range for this position is $69,073 - $82,836.

Open date: September 15, 2026

Next review date: Friday, Sep 25, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Final date: Friday, Oct 16, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)

Position description

A fully funded Postdoctoral Scholar position supported by recent NIH awards is available in the The Peng Lab (Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA). Our laboratory combines single-cell multiomics (scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq, spatial transcriptomics), cell-surface proteomics, viral vector engineering, and computational modeling to decode the development, circuit organization, and degeneration of the visual system. We are seeking a highly motivated scientist trained in neuroscience with expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics to lead high-impact research projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead independent and collaborative research projects employing multi-omic profiling, functional genomics, and viral targeting strategies.
• Perform standard molecular and cellular neurobiology assays (e.g., construct design/cloning, cell/neuronal culture, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting).
• Execute bioinformatic and statistical analyses on high-throughput single-cell and spatial transcriptomic datasets.
• Prepare high-quality manuscripts, assist with grant reporting, and present findings at national and international conferences.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Systems Biology, Computational Biology, or a related field.
• Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques and hands‑on experience with computational/bioinformatic workflows for single-cell or high‑dimensional datasets.
• Demonstrated record of scientific productivity, self‑motivation, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with viral vector engineering (AAV), CRISPR gene‑editing, spatial transcriptomics, electrophysiology, or calcium imaging is a plus.

Application Requirements

Document requirements

• Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
• Cover Letter/Statement of Research

Reference requirements

• 3-5 required (contact information only)

About UCLA

As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.

• "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
• UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
• UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
• APM - 035: Affine

Job location

Los Angeles, CA