Postdoctoral scholar on metabolic biology

Postdoctoral Position Available – Metabolic Research at UC Berkeley

A postdoctoral position is available in the lab of Dr. Sona Kang in the Department of Metabolic Biology & Nutrition at UC Berkeley (https://vcresearch.berkeley.edu/faculty/sona-kang).

Our central goal is to elucidate how molecular and epigenetic mechanisms govern adipose tissue function and its endocrine signaling to regulate systemic metabolism, with the ultimate aim of developing novel therapeutic strategies for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and related metabolic diseases. We combine interdisciplinary approaches spanning cellular and animal models with molecular, biochemical, and multi-omics strategies to dissect the complex regulatory networks that govern metabolic function.

We are seeking a self-motivated, detail-oriented, and collaborative individual who thrives in a stimulating research environment. Candidates should demonstrate a high level of independence and strong critical thinking skills. Ph.D. candidates nearing graduation are welcome to apply.

Expertise in one or more of the following areas is required: molecular and cell biology, metabolic phenotyping in mouse models, or genome-wide profiling. The successful candidate will lead projects involving mouse metabolic studies, cell-based assays, and/or biochemical analyses.

Our recent publications:

1. JMJD8 regulates adipocyte hypertrophy through the interaction with Perilipin 2. Diabetes.2025
2. JMJD8 Facilitates Hepatic Lipid Deposition and Metabolic Dysfunction. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab (2025).
3. TET3 plays a critical role in white adipose development and diet-induced remodeling. Cell Reports. 2023
4. AIFM2 is required for high-intensity aerobic exercise by promoting glucose utilization. Diabetes. 2022
5. JMJD8 is a Novel Molecular Nexus Between Adipocyte-Intrinsic Inflammation and Insulin Resistance. Diabetes. 2021
6. A necessary role of DNMT3A in endurance exercise by suppressing ALDH1L1-mediated oxidative stress. EMBO, 2021
7. TET1 is a beige adipocyte–selective epigenetic suppressor of thermogenesis. Nat Commun. 2020
8. Functional role of DNA methylation in adipose biology. Diabetes 2019
9. TET2 facilitates PPARγ agonist–mediated gene regulation and insulin sensitization in adipocytes. Metabolism. 2018
10. Dnmt3a is an epigenetic mediator of adipose insulin resistance. eLife. 2017

TO APPLY

Interested applicants should directly e-mail Dr. Sona Kang at sonakanglab@gmail.com a single PDF file that includes cover letter and CV and names/contact information of at least three individuals for references.

Appointment

The initial appointment is for 24 months, with renewal based on performance and funding. This is a full-time appointment.

Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience and based on UC Berkeley Postdoc salary scale. The annual salary range for this position will be determined by UC Berkeley guidelines https://www.ucop.edu/academic-personnel-programs/_files/2025-26/represented-oct-2025-scales/t23.pdf. Generous benefits are included (http://vspa.berkeley.edu/postdocs).