Postdoctoral Scientist - Mendell Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI); Town of Texas (WI); On-site; USD 70,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to join the Mendell Lab at UT Southwestern Medical Center. This role involves investigating RNA biology, contributing to impactful research on gene regulation and noncoding RNAs.

Ideal candidates will possess a Ph.D. in relevant fields and a strong commitment to research integrity. The position offers opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and a competitive compensation package.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in scientific discipline such as biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, structural biology, developmental biology, or cancer biology.
• Less than two years of prior postdoctoral research experience.
• Strong commitment to research integrity.

Responsibilities

• Develop independent research projects.
• Write scientific manuscripts describing research findings.
• Attend national and international meetings to present research findings.

Skills

Research integrity

Positive approach to research

Mentoring

Education

Ph.D. in a relevant scientific discipline

Job description

Primary Work Address: 6001 Forest Park Road, Dallas, TX, 75390-9050

The Mendell Lab at UT Southwestern Medical Center is seeking a driven and passionate Postdoctoral Associate to join our group. We are a diverse group of collaborative scientists investigating broad questions in RNA biology. In particular, we are interested in understanding how genes are regulated post‑transcriptionally, how various classes of noncoding RNAs such as microRNAs, long noncoding RNAs, small nucleolar RNAs, and tRNAs participate in these regulatory pathways, and how these pathways go awry in human disease. We use a variety of approaches and model systems to address these questions including high‑throughput screens, animal modeling, and mechanistic studies including structural biology.

Areas of Research

• Identification of new functions for noncoding RNAs.
• Regulation of microRNA activity and impact on health and disease.
• Mechanistic and structural dissection of noncoding RNA functions.
• Post‑transcriptional regulation of mRNA translation and stability.

What We Provide

• Opportunity to work in an exciting, cutting‑edge, and supportive research environment.
• Broad training in biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, high‑throughput methodologies, and animal modeling.
• Training in scientific writing and communication.
• Mentorship tailored to your scientific and professional goals.
• Opportunity to mentor junior colleagues and work collaboratively as part of a team.
• Opportunities for professional and educational development and growth, including assistance with preparing postdoctoral fellowships, job applications, and interviews.
• Chance to present original work at scientific meetings.
• Access to world‑class core facilities for animal modeling, structural biology, high‑throughput sequencing and screening, metabolomics, etc.
• Access to the vibrant and collaborative research environment at UT Southwestern.
• A competitive compensation package, with comprehensive health and welfare benefits.

What You’ll Do

• Develop independent research projects based on your interests, expertise, and goals, including the opportunity to establish a research program that will form the basis for your own independent research laboratory upon completion of postdoctoral training.
• Write scientific manuscripts describing research findings.
• Attend national and international meetings to present research findings, learn about the latest advances in the field, and develop a scientific network.
• Apply for fellowships and grants.
• Mentor junior scientists.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. degree in a scientific discipline such as biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, structural biology, developmental biology, or cancer biology.
• Less than two years of prior postdoctoral research experience.
• Resilient and positive approach to scientific research.
• Willingness to fully participate in lab and departmental activities, to positively engage with other team members and promote their success (e.g., by reviewing manuscripts, participating in practice talks), mentor junior colleagues, and contribute to an inclusive and productive research environment.
• Strong commitment to research integrity.

Physical Requirements

• Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers; communication skills; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace.
• Ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (e.g., laptop computer or tablet).
• Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties with reasonable accommodation. Requests for accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation Range: $70,000.00 (minimum) – $80,500.00 (midpoint) – $91,000.00 (maximum) (annual).

Our employees earn competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs.

Equal Opportunity Employer

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We use E‑Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Application Instructions

• Submit one PDF containing: a cover letter including a summary of research experience, career goals, and expertise; a curriculum vitae with brief descriptions of each publication; names and contact information for at least three references.

For more information about your rights as an applicant, please review the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Know Your Rights, and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) posters. If you require an accommodation related to submitting your application, contact [e-mail].