Postdoctoral Scientist – Mitochondrial Biology

University of Pennsylvania; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bomba-Warczak Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania invites applications for a Postdoctoral Scientist to lead new research projects in mitochondrial biology. The successful candidate will study mitochondrial maintenance and function in long-lived mammalian cells, using mouse models, quantitative biochemistry, and omics approaches in a collaborative environment.

Candidates with a PhD and at least one first-author publication, plus strong experimental and analytical skills, are

Qualifications

• PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Physiology, Neuroscience, or a related field.
• Demonstrated research experience in mitochondrial biology.
• At least one first-author primary research publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Strong experimental and analytical skills in molecular or cellular biology.
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments.

Responsibilities

• Lead new research projects in mitochondrial biology.
• Develop experimental directions and coordinate studies.
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team and mentor junior researchers.

Skills

Mitochondrial biology

Independent experimental design

Team collaboration

Analytical skills

Education

PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Physiology, or Neuroscience

Tools

Mass spectrometry

Proteomics

Metabolomics

Stable-isotope tracing

R

Python

Job description

About the Lab: The Bomba-Warczak Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania is recruiting creative, collaborative, and highly independent Postdoctoral Scientists to lead new research projects in mitochondrial biology.

Our lab investigates how mitochondria are maintained and renewed in long-lived mammalian cells, with a particular interest in how organelle function is sustained over extended timescales in complex tissues. We integrate mouse models, quantitative biochemistry, stable-isotope tracing, and mass-spectrometry–based omics to understand the molecular mechanisms that govern mitochondrial maintenance, bioenergetics, and cellular resilience. Learn more about the lab at bombawarczaklab.com

Projects will be tailored to the interests of the successful candidate within broadly defined research themes including:

• Mechanisms of mitochondrial maintenance and renewal in long-lived cells
• Molecular coordination of mitochondrial gene expression and protein homeostasis
• Systems-level analysis of mitochondrial metabolism and proteome dynamics
• Mitochondrial function in complex mammalian tissues, including the nervous system

The Bomba-Warczak Lab is based at the Perelman School of Medicine's Department of Physiology at the University of Pennsylvania, within a highly collaborative scientific environment that provides access to world-class facilities for proteomics, metabolomics, imaging, and mouse genetics. Our lab emphasizes rigorous science, intellectual independence, and strong mentorship supporting diverse career trajectories.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Physiology, Neuroscience, or a related field
• Demonstrated research experience in mitochondrial biology
• At least one first-author primary research publication in a peer-reviewed journal
• Strong experimental and analytical skills in molecular or cellular biology
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with mammalian systems and/or mouse models
• Exposure to mass spectrometry, proteomics, metabolomics or stable-isotope tracing or metabolic analysis
• Background in neuroscience or complex tissue physiology
• Computational/data analysis skills (R, Python or similar)

Applicants should submit a CV, cover letter, a PDF with relevant publication(s), and provide 3 contacts for references.

In the cover letter, applicants should describe their research experience and indicate the experimental direction they would like to pursue in the lab.

Candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome to apply.

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.