Postdoctoral Scientist - O'Brown Lab

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Exceptional health benefits

Retirement plans

Time off

Wellness programs

Job summary

A leading biomedical research organization is seeking a motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to explore the mechanisms regulating blood-brain barrier function. Candidates should have a Ph.D. in a relevant field and expertise in in vivo techniques such as zebrafish or mouse models. The role includes conducting experiments, mentoring undergraduates, and contributing to high-impact research. This position offers mentorship and opportunities for career development in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Prior experience with in vivo techniques, ideally in zebrafish or mouse models.
• Hands-on skills in vascular biology and developmental imaging.
• Strong sense of independence to manage and lead projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects focused on vascular biology and BBB development.
• Conduct experiments in zebrafish and mouse models.
• Document and present findings in internal meetings and scientific publications.

Skills

In vivo techniques

Molecular biology techniques

Data interpretation

Research independence

Education

Ph.D. in Developmental Biology or related field

Tools

PCR

Cloning

RNA sequencing

Job description

Postdoctoral Scientist - O'Brown Lab page is loaded## Postdoctoral Scientist - O'Brown Lablocations: Rutgers University - New Brunswicktime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 30+ Days Agojob requisition id: R-3801Primary 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.**What You’ll Get:*** Close mentorship from Dr. O’Brown and the opportunity to mentor junior trainees.* A 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.* The opportunity to shape the direction of a growing, high-impact lab working at the intersection of development and neurovascular biology.**What you will do:*** 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.**What You Bring:*** 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.**Please Note:**This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.**#LI-JH1****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. Visit our site to learn more.*Compensation Range*$70,000.00 (minimum) - $80,500.00 (midpoint) - $91,000.00 (maximum)Pay Type:AnnualHHMI’s salary structure is developed based on relevant job market data. HHMI considers a candidate's education, previous experiences, knowledge, skills and abilities, as well as internal consistency when making job offers. Typically, a new hire for this position in this location is compensated between the minimum and the midpoint of the salary range.We use to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time. **Why HHMI**To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations.At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work.What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. page.