Post Doctoral Associate

The University of Pittsburgh is seeking a highly motivated Post Doctoral Research Fellow to join Dr. Liyun Zhang's laboratory in the Department of Ophthalmology. Dr. Zhang's research focuses on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying retinal neuron cell degeneration and regeneration, with the ultimate goal of developing new therapies to slow or cure retinal degeneration.

Our current research efforts include (1) generating and characterizing novel genetic models using zebrafish, mimicking human inherited retinal degenerative diseases; (2) identifying novel signaling pathways that regulate photoreceptors loss and regeneration; and 3) the high-throughput in vivo drug screening to discover new therapeutic molecules.

Projects will involve zebrafish animal handling, large-scale in vivo drug screening, visual behavioral assays, and many state-of-the-art techniques, like CRISPR/Cas9 precise gene editing, multi-omics studies, high-content imaging, confocal microscopy, and etc. This is an excellent opportunity to work in a collaborative, innovative environment while contributing to impactful research and advancing your career in retinal biology.

* Duties or Responsibilities

1. Design, perform, and analyze experiments related to retinal degeneration and regeneration.

2. Develop and characterize zebrafish models of human retinal diseases using CRISPR/Cas9 and other genetic tools.

3. Conduct transcriptomic (e.g., single-cell RNA sequencing) and proteomic analyses to uncover key signaling pathways in retinal degenerative processes.

4. Perform in vivo phenotypic drug screening to identify and validate potential therapeutic agents.

5. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary research team and participate in lab meetings, presentations, and manuscript preparation.

6. Mentor graduate and undergraduate students in the lab as needed.

* Expectations

1. Applicants must have a PhD, MD or equivalent degree in a Scientific field.

2. Applicants with background and experience in molecular biology, developmental biology, ophthalmology, and a good publication record are preferred.

3. Applicants with expertise in zebrafish modeling, CRISPR, immunohistology, visual behavior assay and single RNA seq are preferred.

4. All candidates should have a strong interest in retinal research and a proactive work ethic.

5. Effective verbal and written communication skills, along with the ability to work independently and collaboratively are expected.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.