Research Associate Position in Kidney Genetics and Genomics

University of Pennsylvania; United (PA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia is seeking a Research Associate in Kidney Genetics and Genomics. The role offers a one-year initial appointment with renewal based on performance and funding, within the Division of Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension. Expertise in human genetics and sequencing is required.

The successful candidate will conduct functional studies, analyze genomic data, and collaborate across Penn Medicine to advance understanding of rare kidney diseases.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. required and strong background in genetics/genomics.
• Experience applying genetic/genomic methods to human disease.
• Experience with exome/genome sequencing and interpretation of variants.
• Ability to lead research projects and supervise staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects on rare kidney diseases.
• Perform functional studies in cellular and vertebrate models.
• Analyze complex genomic and molecular data.
• Mentor junior staff and students; present findings at meetings.

Skills

Human genetics

Genomics

Genetic epidemiology

Molecular genetics

Bioinformatics

Data interpretation

Education

Ph.D. degree

Tools

Exome sequencing

Genome sequencing

DNA microarrays

Job description

Research Associate Position in Kidney Genetics andGenomics

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Open Date: Aug 14, 2026

Deadline: Aug 14, 2028 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time

The Division of Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension in the Department of Medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania seeks candidates for a Research Associate position in the Academic Support Staff. This appointment will be initially for one (1) year and continuation during that time period and renewal are based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding (limited to three (3) years). Expertise is required in the specific area of human genetics, genomics, genetic epidemiology, molecular genetics, or a closely related biomedical research field, with demonstrated research experience applying genetic and genomic approaches to human disease. Experience in kidney genetics and rare kidney disease research is preferred, including research involving nephrotic syndrome, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, congenital kidney and urinary tract abnormalities, or related disorders. Experience with exome and/or genome sequencing, analysis and interpretation of genetic variants, and functional characterization of disease-associated variants is also preferred. Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree.

Responsibilities may include leading research projects directed toward the discovery and characterization of rare genetic variants predisposing to rare kidney diseases, including congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, ADAMTS13-related diseases, and nephrotic syndrome. Responsibilities will include conducting functional studies in cellular and vertebrate disease models; utilizing DNA microarrays, exome and genome sequencing technologies, mouse models, and transcriptomic, epigenomic, and proteomic approaches; analyzing and interpreting complex genomic and molecular data; providing scientific leadership for research projects; supervising laboratory technicians, junior bioinformaticians, and students; presenting research findings at national and international scientific meetings; and publishing results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

The successful applicant will have an opportunity to advance the expertise in kidney genetics, genomics, and rare kidney disease research within a highly collaborative academic research environment. The successful applicant will have opportunities to lead multidisciplinary research projects, expand expertise in genomic and multi-omic approaches, conduct functional studies of disease-associated genetic variants, mentor junior research staff and trainees, collaborate with investigators across Penn Medicine, and disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international scientific meetings.

The successful candidate will join the Division of Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension in the Department of Medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and participate in a collaborative research program focused on understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying rare kidney diseases.

Qualifications

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement 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.