Job Description
Postdoctoral fellow - Dr. Sundstrom Lab Location: University of Pennsylvania, School of Medicine, Ophthalmology dept.
Open Date: Oct 22, 2025
Deadline: The Sundstrom Lab in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania is seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our dynamic research team focused on extracellular vesicle (EV) biology and its applications in precision medicine for retinal disease.
Our lab is focused on investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying retinal disease, with a particular emphasis on the role of ocular extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the development and progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other degenerative retinal disorders. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of EV research, stem cell biology, and advanced molecular techniques. The successful candidate will lead projects investigating EV-mediated cellular communication, develop novel therapeutic approaches, and contribute to translational research initiatives.
Key Responsibilities: - Design and conduct independent research projects focused on extracellular vesicle isolation, characterization, and functional analysis.
- Perform comprehensive molecular biology techniques including Western blotting, PCR, qPCR, and digital PCR for EV cargo analysis.
- Maintain and expand human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) cultures, including differentiation protocols and quality control.
- Execute CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing for gene knockout, knock-in, and reporter line generation.
- Develop and optimize protocols for EV production, purification, and engineering.
- Conduct multi-omics analyses including: RNA-seq and single-cell transcriptomics for EV cargo and recipient cell profiling, Proteomics analysis using mass spectrometry and/or aptamer-based platforms. Integrated bioinformatics analysis of multi-omics datasets.
- Perform advanced microscopy techniques for EV visualization and tracking.
- Maintain detailed experimental records and ensure reproducibility of results.
- Mentor graduate students and research technicians in experimental techniques, collaborate with interdisciplinary research teams across departments.
- Participate in joint projects with clinical collaborators for translational applications and contribute to collaborative grant applications and manuscript preparation.
- Present research findings at departmental seminars and national/international conferences.
- Prepare manuscripts for publication in high-impact peer-reviewed journals.
- Participate in grant writing activities including fellowship applications and attend relevant workshops and training programs.
Qualifications - PhD in molecular biology, neuroscience, immunology, ophthalmology, or a related biomedical field.
- Demonstrated expertise in extracellular vesicle isolation and characterization techniques (ultracentrifugation, size exclusion chromatography, nanoparticle tracking analysis).
- Proficiency in molecular biology techniques: Western blotting, RT-PCR, qPCR, cloning, and vector construction, experience with mammalian cell culture and sterile technique.
- Hands-on experience with CRISPR/Cas9 system design and implementation, proven track record of successful gene editing in mammalian cells, experience with screening and validation of edited clones.
- Experience maintaining human iPSC cultures in feeder-free conditions, knowledge of pluripotency assessment and quality control measures, familiarity with directed differentiation protocols is highly desirable.
- Experience with transcriptomic data analysis (bulk and/or single-cell RNA-seq), working knowledge of proteomics workflows and data interpretation, Basic proficiency in R, Python, or other programming languages for data analysis is desirable but not necessary.
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
- Strong publication record and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- While these areas of expertise are preferred, we also encourage candidates from other fields and expertise to apply.
Application Instructions Please provide all the below materials through the Interfolio application portal. International applicants are encouraged to apply and visa sponsorship is available.
1. Cover Letter (2 pages maximum) describing:
- Your research interests and career goals
- Specific experience with EV research and relevant techniques
- How your background aligns with this position
- Your earliest available start date
2. Curriculum Vitae including:
- Complete publication list with journal impact factors
- Presentations at scientific conferences
- Awards, honors, and fellowships
- Technical skills and methodologies
3. Research Statement (3 pages maximum) outlining:
- Summary of your doctoral research and key findings
- Proposed research directions for this position
- Long-term career objectives
4. Contact Information for three references including:
- Current/most recent supervisor
- At least one additional research mentor
- Name, title, institution, email, and phone number
- Brief description of your relationship with each reference.
Note: International applicants are encouraged to apply. Visa sponsorship is available.
To apply, visit 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.
Job Tags
Full time, Local area, Visa sponsorship,