Postdoc in Airway Physiology

Location: University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine

Open Date: Jan 26, 2026

Deadline:

A postdoctoral position to study human airway epithelial physiology and signaling is available in the lab of Rob Lee at Penn. Our lab is part of the Division of Rhinology in the Department or Otorhinolaryngology, and we are also affiliated with and located next to the Department of Physiology. More about the lab's research and recent publications by postdocs and other students, can be found at www.robleelab.com.

Our primary disease interest is chronic rhinosinusitis, a syndrom of unrelenting nasal and sinus inflammation that affects >10% of the US population. We also study cystic fibrosis, a genetic disease that directly affects the innate immunity of both the lung and nasal epithelium. Our work is currenty funded by both the NIH and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Funding for this postdoctoral position will come from NIH/NHLBI. Candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome to apply.

Our lab uses a combination of live-cell and confocal imaging, biochemistry, and molecular biology using primary human cells isolated from nasal surgical samples and cultured at air-liquid interface. The lab is interested in how G-protein coupled receptors and calcium signaling regulate antimicrobial and inflammatory responses in nasal cells. We are also interested in how GPCR calcium signaling regulates epithelial interactions with immune cells like macrophages and dendritic cells.

The postdoc will work closely with the PI and other lab members and receive training in live-cell imaging and other techniques as needed, potentially including measurements of calcium, nitric oxide, pH, ciliary beat frequency, fluid secretion, phagocytosis, and/or imaging of fluorescent protein biosensors. The postdoc will also be expected to independently or collaboratively develop or learn new techniques as required by the project. Opportunities for professional development (grant writing, review writing, collaborations, conferences, etc.) will be encouraged and supported. Salary and benefit information and postdoctoral policies at Penn are outlined on the Penn Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs website (https://www.med.upenn.edu/postdoc/).

Qualifications

A PhD in a biological science (cell biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, immunology, physiology, etc.) with demonstration of successful completion of thesis project. Experience in cell culture, biochemistry, imaging, and/or electrophysiology is highly desirable, but not required. Communication skills (reading, writing, speaking), enthusiasm, and good interpersonal skills are essential. We strive to create a collegial and professional team environment.

Application Instructions

Please upload a coverletter, CV, and names of at least two references into Interfolio. Questions can be directed to rjl@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/180518

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The 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.