Postdoctoral Scientist - Zhang Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI); Davis (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 91,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous research funding

Mentorship from Dr. Zhang

Access to cutting-edge instrumentation

Competitive compensation package

Job summary

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is seeking a Postdoctoral Scientist for Dr. Elisa Zhang’s lab in Davis, CA. This position involves conducting groundbreaking research in uterine and placental biology, utilizing innovative methodologies across various species including mice and human organoids.

The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. and a strong research background. We offer a collaborative lab environment and competitive compensation including comprehensive health benefits and mentorship tailored to your career aspirations.

Qualifications

• Strong track record of research achievement.
• Ability to learn quickly and work independently.
• Commitment to research integrity.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments.
• Mentor junior trainees and maintain lab facilities.
• Participate in manuscript preparation and grant writing.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Leadership

Independence

Collaboration

Education

Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology or related field

Job description

Job Overview

Primary Work Address: One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616. The Role: Postdoctoral Scientist in Dr. Elisa Zhang’s lab in the Departments of Physiology & Membrane Biology and Obstetrics & Gynecology at UC Davis. The lab studies uterine, placental, and pregnancy biology using single‑cell, spatial, in‑vitro, and surgical approaches in multiple model species and human organoids to investigate the uterine endometrium and maternal‑fetal interface, with the goal of improving female and fetal health.

We are hiring a Postdoctoral Scientist with a strong background in developmental, molecular, cellular, and/or reproductive biology (wet lab) or bioinformatics and high‑throughput data analysis (dry lab). Candidates must be capable of working independently, staying abreast of current literature, designing, executing, and interpreting experiments, collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team, and communicating clearly in internal meetings, conferences, and publications. This position also includes mentoring junior trainees and assisting with laboratory maintenance. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding scientific credentials, a growth mindset, strong leadership and communication skills, and a commitment to research integrity and a positive lab culture.

Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to study uterine, placental, and pregnancy biology in mice, rhesus macaques, and human organoids.

• Develop and apply cutting‑edge single‑cell, spatial, in‑vitro, and in‑vivo technologies.

• Mentor junior trainees and help maintain lab facilities.

• Participate in manuscript preparation, grant writing, and scientific collaborations.

What We Provide

• An energetic, inclusive and collaborative lab environment that values innovation, rigor, and mentorship.


• Generous, stable research funding from HHMI.


• Strong publication and conference presentation opportunities.


• Individual mentorship and support from Dr. Zhang tailored to your scientific and career goals.


• Access to direct support in writing and securing fellowships.


• Opportunities to mentor the next generation of scientists.


• Access to cutting‑edge instrumentation and facilities.


• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.


• Access to HHMI’s on‑demand learning and skill‑building content.

What You’ll Do

• Embryo implantation studies.


• Placental development and function.


• Uterine endometrial stem cells, their niche, and intercellular communication during the menstrual cycle.


• Uterine and maternal‑fetal interface dysfunction (e.g., endometriosis, preeclampsia).


• Implementation of these projects using a variety of approaches in mice, rhesus macaques, and human organoids.

What You Bring

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, Reproductive Biology, Neuroscience, Bioinformatics, or a related field, anticipated to be completed by the start date.


• A strong track record of research achievement with evidence of creativity, independence, analytical thinking, and proficiency with multiple approaches.


• Ability to learn quickly and work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.


• Enthusiasm for tackling challenging biological questions with a strong growth mindset.


• Positive attitude, strategic, adaptive, and resourceful problem‑solving skills.


• Strong leadership skills and willingness to mentor others.


• Strong verbal and written communication skills coupled with effective interpersonal and collaboration skills.


• Commitment to research integrity.


• Ability to contribute to fostering a positive, thriving lab culture.

Application Instructions

• Cover letter: your scientific interests in relation to the lab’s focus and a summary of research accomplishments.


• Curriculum vitae (C.V.).


• Contact information for three professional references.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping; dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, e.g., using a keyboard; communication skills using spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; mobility to move materials weighing up to several pounds. Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties with reasonable accommodation.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary range: $70,000.00 (minimum) - $80,500.00 (midpoint) - $91,000.00 (maximum). Pay type: Annual. Compensation is based on job market data, education, experience, and internal consistency. HHMI offers 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. We celebrate diversity and inclusion and encourage a culture that supports all employees.

EEOC & Disability Accommodation

Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis. When necessary, we collaborate with disability services to ensure equitable access to the workplace.