Postdoctoral Scientist – Mitochondrial Biology

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine; Pennsylvania; On-site; USD 52,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist to lead new research projects in mitochondrial biology. The role involves independent experimentation, collaboration, and mentoring within a highly collaborative lab environment.

The successful candidate will work with mouse models and advanced omics to understand mitochondrial maintenance, bioenergetics, and cellular resilience, contributing to the lab's overall research themes and publication output.

Qualifications

• PhD in biology or related field.
• Demonstrated research in mitochondrial biology.
• At least one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
• Strong experimental and analytical skills in molecular/cellular biology.
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments.

Responsibilities

• Lead new research projects in mitochondrial biology.
• Work with mouse models and mammalian systems.
• Collaborate across disciplines and mentor junior scientists.
• Design, execute, and interpret experiments to advance project goals.

Skills

Mitochondrial biology

Experimental design

Molecular biology

Data analysis (R/Python)

Education

PhD in Biology/Biochemistry/Cell Biology/Physiology/Neuroscience

Tools

Mass spectrometry

Proteomics

Metabolomics

Job description

Postdoctoral Scientist – Mitochondrial Biology

University of Pennsylvania: Postdoctoral Positions: Perelman School of Medicine Postdoctoral

Location

University of Pennsylvania - Perelman School of Medicine

Open Date

Mar 13, 2026

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

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.

Qualifications

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)

Application Instructions

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