Postdoctoral Research Associate in Evolutionary Cell Biology

Job Details

Job no: 503909
Work type: Exempt Staff Full-time
Location: Bethlehem
Categories: Postdoc

The incoming postdoctoral researcher will lead experimental projects on the evolutionary mechanisms of chromosome segregation in mammals, using mouse oocytes, preimplantation embryos, hybrid mouse models, and/or tissue culture cells.

Position Number: RC2910

Anticipated Salary: $65,000 - Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent and collaborative research on chromosome segregation, centromere biology, and the consequences of rapid evolution for genome stability and female reproduction.
• Design, execute, and analyze experiments using mouse oocytes/embryos (including microinjection), and mouse/human cell lines, CRISPR-based gene editing, immunofluorescence, and confocal imaging.
• Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences.
• Assist in the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, providing guidance on experimental techniques, data analysis, and project development.
• Contribute to grant writing, including assisting with proposal development and identifying funding opportunities.
• Participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and other events to engage with the academic community.

Qualifications:

• Doctoral degree (or near completion) in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, or evolutionary biology, or a closely related field, completed by the start of the appointment.
• Strong background in cell biology, with experience in one or more of: molecular biology, CRISPR-based gene editing, confocal microscopy, mouse genetics, or mouse oocyte/embryo manipulation.
• Demonstrated research experience and at least one first-author publication in a reputable peer-reviewed journal (or a preprint).
• Strong writing, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills are required.
• Commitment to fostering an inclusive research and teaching environment.
• Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with mouse oocyte/embryo microinjection, mammalian cell culture, and confocal imaging.
• Experience with CRISPR-based gene editing in mouse/human cells.
• Familiarity with computational molecular evolution analyses.
• Quantitative image analysis skills (e.g., Fiji/ImageJ, Python, R).

Terms of Appointment:

This position is a full-time, one-year position with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.