Title HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell Biology School Harvard Medical School Department/Area Cell Biology Position Description We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Farnung lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The work of the Farnung lab is focused on transcription, DNA replication, and epigenetics. We welcome applications from recent PhD graduates who are interested in these or related fields, particularly those who may bring a new technology or perspective to bear on the work in the lab.
The successful candidate will work with Dr. Farnung to develop an independent research project within the scope of the lab’s research focus. In addition to carrying out wet lab research, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations and collaborative environment.
Salary and Benefits
This position is salaried and benefits-eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post-PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines-policies.
With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.
- Basic QualificationsPh.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in such as structural biology or biochemistry or related fields
- We are specifically looking for Ph.D. that have experience with cryo-EM
Additional QualificationsIf visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.Special InstructionsRequired documents:
- Curriculum Vitae
- Statement of Research for PhD work
- Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.
- Note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your references
Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Selected candidates will be invited to in-person interviews that include a research presentation on past work.
Expected Dates:
- Application deadline: November 3, 2026
- Start date: The position is expected to start on or around January 11, 2027, with some flexibility.
- Duration: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.
Contact InformationLucas Farnung
Harvard Medical School
Department of Cell Biology
240 Longwood Ave.
Boston, MA 02115Contact EmailLucas_Farnung@hms.harvard.eduSalary RangeSalary and Benefits
This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines-policies.
Minimum Number of References Required3Maximum Number of References Allowed3Keywords
EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment StatementHarvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
Curriculum Vitae
Cover Letter
Statement of Research
Note
Optional Documents
Publication

