Postdoctoral Scholar

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This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding.

POSITION SPECIFICS

Postdoctoral Research Position in Mouse Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Department of Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics, Penn State University College of Medicine
Location: Hershey, Pennsylvania

Position Overview:

We invite applications for a full-time postdoctoral research position specializing in mouse neurodevelopmental disorders, focusing on high-throughput experiments, data generation, and advanced data analysis. This role is part of a large-scale, multi-institutional consortium study aimed at uncovering novel insights into the genetic and molecular underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders. The successful candidate will apply cutting-edge techniques in spatial and single-cell transcriptomics to study the effects of gene knockouts across multiple scales, contributing to a comprehensive dataset from one hundred mouse lines with targeted neurodevelopmental disorder-associated gene knockouts.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead experiments to generate spatial and single-cell transcriptomic data across various developmental stages in knockout mouse models.
Apply high-throughput molecular and cellular techniques to assess gene expression, spatial organization, and cellular diversity in neurodevelopmental contexts.
Conduct rigorous data analysis using bioinformatics tools and frameworks to manage, analyze, and interpret transcriptomic data at multiple scales.
Collaborate within a large consortium, contributing to multi-site data integration and reporting.
Prepare research findings for publication and present data at national and international conferences.
Contribute to the design and implementation of novel experimental approaches to address complex questions in neurodevelopment.
Mentor graduate students and provide guidance on technical skills, data analysis, and scientific writing.

Qualifications:

PhD in Biology, Neuroscience, Systems Biology, or a related field with a focus on neurodevelopment, transcriptomics, or systems biology.
Strong background in mouse models and neurodevelopmental experiments with proven wet lab skills.
Expertise in spatial and single-cell transcriptomics techniques and experience analyzing large-scale, high-dimensional transcriptomic data.
A record of high-quality publications in peer-reviewed journals, demonstrating a commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.
Experience with data analysis pipelines, programming (e.g., Python, R), and bioinformatics software relevant to transcriptomic data.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
A highly organized, detail-oriented approach to project management, with an ability to meet deadlines and adapt to evolving project goals.

Preferred Skills:

Familiarity with neurodevelopmental disorder research or prior experience with genetic knockout models in mice.
Experience managing and integrating multi-scale datasets, with knowledge of consortium-based data-sharing protocols and practices.
Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex datasets, identifying meaningful patterns, and translating findings into impactful publications.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should submit the following materials:

Cover letter outlining your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the qualifications. CV, including a list of publications. Research statement (1-2 pages), describing your research background, relevant skills, and future research interests. Contact information for three references.

Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

BENEFITS

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

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EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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