Postdoctoral Scientist - O'Brown Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI); Lincoln Park (NJ); On-site; USD 70,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Close mentorship

Career development support

Networking opportunities

Job summary

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join the O’Brown Lab. This role focuses on understanding blood-brain barrier mechanisms using zebrafish and mouse models. You'll lead independent projects and have the opportunity to mentor junior trainees.

The position offers close mentorship, support for career development, and a vibrant lab culture. Compensation ranges from $70,000 to $91,000 annually with exceptional health benefits.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biosciences, or related field.
• Experience with in vivo techniques, ideally in zebrafish or mouse models.
• Skills in vascular biology, developmental imaging, and blood-brain barrier research.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects on vascular biology and BBB development.
• Conduct experiments in zebrafish and mouse models.
• Supervise undergraduate trainees and contribute to lab culture.

Skills

In vivo techniques (zebrafish or mouse)

Molecular biology techniques (PCR, cloning)

Vascular biology knowledge

Developmental imaging skills

RNA sequencing workflows

Education

Ph.D. in Developmental Biology or related field

Job description

Primary Work Address: Rutgers University/CABM, Piscataway, NJ 08854-5638

About the O’Brown Lab

The O’Brown Lab at Rutgers University is unraveling the intricate mechanisms that govern the blood‑brain barrier (BBB) – a specialized vascular interface that protects the brain and regulates the flow of ions, nutrients, and immune cells. The lab’s work focuses on how the BBB forms and functions during development, and how its breakdown contributes to neurological diseases. Our research integrates molecular, developmental, and vascular biology to inform future therapeutic applications.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent Postdoctoral Scientist to join our in‑person, cross‑disciplinary team. This role focuses on understanding the developmental and cellular mechanisms that regulate blood‑brain barrier function using zebrafish and mouse models. Projects aim to define how vascular and surrounding neuronal and glial cells interact during development, how these interactions are disrupted in disease, and how those insights can guide translational research. The position involves designing and executing experiments, overseeing undergraduate researchers, and collaborating closely with Dr. O’Brown and other lab members in a fast‑paced, discovery‑driven environment.

Benefits

Close mentorship from Dr. O’Brown and the opportunity to mentor junior trainees.Focus on career development, with support for producing publications.Active guidance for both academic and industry career pathways – BBB research is highly applicable to both.Ongoing networking support, including conferences and collaboration opportunities.Opportunity to shape the direction of a growing, high‑impact lab working at the intersection of development and neurovascular biology.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on vascular biology and BBB development.
• Conduct experiments in zebrafish and mouse models, including microinjections, live imaging, and behavioral studies.
• Apply molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, and genotyping.
• Perform in vivo imaging and high‑resolution microscopy to visualize vascular function and BBB dynamics.
• Analyze or support RNA sequencing experiments.
• Supervise undergraduate trainees and contribute to an open, collaborative lab culture.
• Document and present findings in internal meetings and scientific publications.

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biosciences, or a related field (e.g., Genetics, Systems Biology).
• Prior experience with in vivo techniques, ideally in zebrafish (preferred) or mouse models.
• Hands‑on skills in vascular biology, developmental imaging, and/or blood‑brain barrier research.
• Experience with RNA sequencing workflows, data interpretation, or collaboration with sequencing teams.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as cloning, PCR, and genotyping.
• A strong sense of independence, with the ability to manage and lead scientific projects autonomously.

Physical Requirements

• Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard.
• Communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace.
• The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).
• Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Compensation Range: $70,000.00 (minimum) – $80,500.00 (midpoint) – $91,000.00 (maximum) Pay Type: Annual. HHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.

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