Postdoctoral Scientist - Gene Therapy/Neuromuscular Disease

Nationwide Children's Hospital; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 52,000 - 68,000; Full time

Job summary

Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, OH is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join a lab focused on developing AAV gene therapies for neuromuscular and neurological disorders. You will design experiments and conduct both in vivo and in vitro studies while collaborating with team members.

Applicants should hold a PhD and have experience with AAV, gene therapy, neuromuscular science, and iPSC-derived 3D organoid models; appointment is limited to seven years.

Qualifications

• PhD required in relevant field.
• Experience with AAV and gene therapy.
• Ability to design experiments and work independently.

Responsibilities

• Design experiments and develop protocols under faculty mentorship.
• Train and supervise technical staff in essential techniques.
• Record and analyze data; develop hypotheses for further investigation.

Skills

AAV

Gene therapy

Neuromuscular science

iPSC organoids

Education

PhD in relevant field

Job description

Afrooz Rashnonejad's Lab, funded by a new NIH R01 grant in August of 2026, is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented postdoc to join our team focused on developing AAV gene therapies for neuromuscular/neurological disorders. The successful candidate will be able to work independently on multiple projects in a dynamic, highly productive environment. Primary responsibilities include designing experiments, conducting both in vivo and in vitro research, and collaborating with other team members. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess research experience, particularly in AAV, gene therapy, neuromuscular science, and iPSC-derived 3D organoid models.

Job Description Summary:

Conducts research, designs experiments, analyzes data, and presents findings under the mentorship of an established RI principal investigator or Senior Research Scientists. Appointment is a maximum of 7 years in length.

Essential Functions:

• Designs experiments, develops protocols, and conducts research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
• Assists in the training and supervision of technical support staff in performing specific techniques essential to carrying out the research program.
• Records and analyzes data generated by the research study. Assists in the development of hypotheses for further investigation from the results of the studies performed.
• Assists with the preparation of scientific and technical papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Presents findings at local and national research forums.
• Collaborates with other ongoing research efforts either at NCH or at The Ohio State University.
• Works toward research independence, preparing to submit proposals to and obtain funding from external granting agencies.

Education Requirement:

PhD or equivalent degree in relevant field of science, required.