Postdoctoral Scientist

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.; United (PA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania is seeking a highly motivated, full-time Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Ophthalmology research laboratory directed by Dr. Lucie Guo, MD PhD.

The successful candidate will advance projects at the intersection of molecular biology, epigenetics, and gene therapy in ophthalmology while gaining mentorship in experimental design, scientific communication, grant writing, and career development.

Qualifications

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, pharmacology, molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, vision science, or related field.
• Strong foundation in experimental design, data analysis, scientific communication, and interpretation of findings.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent laboratory research using molecular cloning, cell and tissue culture, transfection, CRISPR-based genome engineering, flow cytometry, and biochemical assays.
• Perform animal studies using mouse models, tissue collection, ocular imaging, and histologic/molecular analyses.
• Design experiments, develop protocols, and troubleshoot challenges independently.
• Maintain organized records and ensure data quality, reproducibility, and documentation.
• Present progress at lab meetings and seminars; prepare figures, manuscripts, abstracts, and funding applications.
• Collaborate with clinicians and researchers across disciplines and mentor junior staff and students.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Grant writing

Mentoring

Education

PhD in biology/biochemistry/related field

Tools

CRISPR genome editing

PCR/qPCR

Flow cytometry

Mammalian cell culture

Job description

Postdoctoral Scientist

Location: University of Pennsylvania - Perelman School ofMedicine

Open Date: Aug 12, 2026

Deadline:

The Department of Ophthalmology is seeking a highly motivated,full-time postdoctoral scientist to join a dynamic andcollaborative research laboratory under the direction of thePrincipal Investigator (Dr. Lucie Guo, MD PhD). The successfulcandidate will drive to innovative research at the intersection ofmolecular biology, epigenetics, gene therapy, and ophthalmologywhile receiving mentorship in experimental design, scientificcommunication, grant writing, and career development.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Conduct independent laboratory research using techniques such asmolecular cloning, cell and tissue culture, transfection,CRISPR-based genome engineering, quantitative flow cytometry, andmolecular and biochemical assays
• Perform animal studies, including work with mouse models, tissuecollection, ocular imaging, and histologic and molecularanalyses
• Design rigorous experiments, develop and optimize researchprotocols, and troubleshoot technical challengesindependently
• Maintain accurate and organized laboratory records and ensure thequality, reproducibility, and appropriate documentation ofexperimental data
• Analyze and interpret research findings using appropriatequantitative and statistical methods
• Review relevant scientific literature and integrate emergingconcepts and technologies into ongoing research projects
• Present research progress and findings regularly at laboratorymeetings, departmental seminars, and collaborative researchdiscussions
• Prepare figures, manuscripts, abstracts, and other scientificmaterials for publication in peer-reviewed journals
• Write fellowship, grant, and other funding applications
• Present research findings at local, national, and internationalscientific 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, andundergraduate students
• Contribute to maintaining an organized, collegial, and productive laboratory environment
• Participate in professional-development activities and work withthe Principal Investigator to establish and pursue individualizedresearch and career goals

Qualifications

Qualified applicants should hold a PhD in biology, biochemistry, biophysics, pharmacology, molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, vision science, biomedical engineering, or a relatedfield. Candidates should have a strong foundation in experimentaldesign, data analysis, scientific communication, and theinterpretation 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 thedevelopment or use of cell-based assays
• CRISPR-based genome editing or gene regulation, including guide RAdesign and validation
• Viral vector design, production, or application, particularlyadeno-associated viral vectors
• Animal research, including experience with mouse models, tissuecollection, genotyping, injections, imaging, or surgicalprocedures
• Microscopy, histology, image analysis, and quantitative dataanalysis

The ideal candidate will be highly motivated, organized,intellectually curious, and capable of working both independentlyand collaboratively. Strong written and oral communication skills,careful attention to experimental rigor and reproducibility, and acommitment to maintaining accurate research records are essential.Applicants should also demonstrate the ability to manage multipleprojects, troubleshoot technical challenges, contributeconstructively to a collaborative laboratory environment, andmentor junior researchers. A strong publication record anddemonstrated interest in pursuing an independent scientific oracademic 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), citizenshipstatus, age, disability, veteran status or any class protectedunder applicable federal, state, or local law.