Postdoctoral Scientist

University of Pennsylvania; Erie (Erie County); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania's Department of Ophthalmology seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to join a collaborative lab focused on molecular biology, epigenetics, gene therapy, and ophthalmology under Dr. Lucie Guo.

The role offers mentorship in experimental design, scientific communication, grant writing, and career development. The successful candidate will conduct independent research using CRISPR, cell culture, animal models, and various molecular assays, while contributing to

Qualifications

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, pharmacology, molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, vision science, biomedical engineering, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent laboratory research using molecular cloning, cell/tissue culture, transfection, CRISPR-based genome engineering, flow cytometry, and molecular/biochemical assays.
• Perform animal studies, including mouse models, tissue collection, ocular imaging, and histologic and molecular analyses.
• Design rigorous experiments, develop research protocols, and troubleshoot challenges independently.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure data quality and reproducibility.
• Analyze and interpret data using quantitative and statistical methods.
• Review literature and integrate new concepts into projects.
• Present progress at lab meetings, seminars, and discussions.
• Prepare figures, manuscripts, abstracts for peer-reviewed journals and funders.
• Write fellowship, grant and funding applications.
• Present findings at conferences locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Collaborate with clinicians and researchers across disciplines.
• Mentor junior researchers and trainees; contribute to a productive lab environment.
• Pursue individualized research and career goals with PI mentorship.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Grant writing

Mentoring

Collaboration

Education

PhD in biology/biochemistry/biophysics/pharmacology/molecular biology/genetics/neuroscience/vision science/biomedical engineering

Tools

CRISPR-based genome editing

PCR/qPCR

Western blotting

Immunofluorescence

Mammalian cell culture

Transfection

AAV viral vectors

Flow cytometry

Microscopy

Histology

Job description

The Department of Ophthalmology is seeking a highly motivated, full-time postdoctoral scientist to join a dynamic and collaborative research laboratory under the direction of the Principal Investigator (Dr. Lucie Guo, MD PhD). The successful candidate will drive to innovative research at the intersection of molecular biology, epigenetics, gene therapy, and ophthalmology while receiving mentorship in experimental design, scientific communication, grant writing, and career development.

Primary Responsibilities Include

• Conduct independent laboratory research using techniques such as molecular cloning, cell and tissue culture, transfection, CRISPR-based genome engineering, quantitative flow cytometry, and molecular and biochemical assays
• Perform animal studies, including work with mouse models, tissue collection, ocular imaging, and histologic and molecular analyses
• Design rigorous experiments, develop and optimize research protocols, and troubleshoot technical challenges independently
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records and ensure the quality, reproducibility, and appropriate documentation of experimental data
• Analyze and interpret research findings using appropriate quantitative and statistical methods
• Review relevant scientific literature and integrate emerging concepts and technologies into ongoing research projects
• Present research progress and findings regularly at laboratory meetings, departmental seminars, and collaborative research discussions
• Prepare figures, manuscripts, abstracts, and other scientific materials for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Write fellowship, grant, and other funding applications
• Present research findings at local, national, and international scientific conferences
• Collaborate effectively with laboratory members, clinicians, and research partners across disciplines
• Assist with the training and mentorship of junior researchers, including research staff, graduate students, medical students, and undergraduate students
• Contribute to maintaining an organized, collegial, and productive laboratory environment
• Participate in professional-development activities and work with the Principal Investigator to establish and pursue individualized research and career goals

Qualified applicants should hold a PhD in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, pharmacology, molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, vision science, biomedical engineering, or a related field.

Candidates should have a strong foundation in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, and the interpretation of research findings.

Prior experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

• Molecular biology techniques, including molecular cloning, PCR, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence
• Mammalian cell and tissue culture, transfection, and the development or use of cell-based assays
• CRISPR-based genome editing or gene regulation, including guide RNA design and validation
• Viral vector design, production, or application, particularly adeno-associated viral vectors
• Animal research, including experience with mouse models, tissue collection, genotyping, injections, imaging, or surgical procedures
• Microscopy, histology, image analysis, and quantitative data analysis

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, organized, intellectually curious, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively. Strong written and oral communication skills, careful attention to experimental rigor and reproducibility, and a commitment to maintaining accurate research records are essential. Applicants should also demonstrate the ability to manage multiple projects, troubleshoot technical challenges, contribute constructively to a collaborative laboratory environment, and mentor junior researchers. A strong publication record and demonstrated interest in pursuing an independent scientific or academic career are preferred.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.