Postdoc Research Associate in Developmental Biology

Position Summary

One position is available for the candidate with a strong background in developmental biology, molecular biology, genetics or related disciplines. The candidate will be part of a multidisciplinary team and lead projects aimed at unraveling the complex regulatory mechanisms that govern and refine activities during embryogenesis. They will investigate gene regulatory networks in Ciona embryos using imaging, sequencing, and various molecular and cellular biology techniques, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of computational biologists, engineers, and other biologists, providing an ideal opportunity to develop an independent scientific career. Please email to Dr. Chen Cao ( ... ) for more information.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in developmental biology, molecular biology, cell biology, metabolism or related discipline with at least three years of hands-on experience in genetic manipulation .
• It is preferred that candidates demonstrate scientific productivity with peer-reviewed publications. Recipients of recent PhD degrees are strongly encouraged to apply.
• A solid foundation in developmental biology and strong interests in technique development, such as molecular tool design, new imaging strategies, or single-cell/spatial transcriptomics.
• Proficiency in imaging techniques (e.g., confocal microscopy) and molecular biology techniques.
• Strong curiosity about developmental mechanisms.
• Willingness to work across disciplines.
• Initiative and motivation to drive new project directions.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills and the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Prior experience in vivo model systems (e.g., zebrafish, Ciona, mouse, etc.) is a plus

About Us

• The Cao Lab at UT Dallas is seeking a highly motivated postdoc to join us in the Department of Bioengineering at the University of Texas at Dallas. The Cao Laboratory utilizes and develops cutting-edge single cell omics, imaging and bioinformatic tools to develop innovative models and investigate on lineages commitment, cell type evolution and cell-cell interactions (e.g. Cao et al., Nature 2019; Lemaire et al., Science Advances, 2021; Chen et al., Plos Biology, 2022). Our research aims to elucidate gene regulatory grammar in embryogenesis and cancer development (please visit for more details). The Cao lab is well funded by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), and the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT). A competitive salary, determined by candidates backgrounds and experience, is offered, with the minimum benchmark meeting or exceeding NIH standards.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send the following to ... :

• A cover letter outlining research interests and qualifications.
• A detailed CV.
• Contact information for three references.
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

We look forward to welcoming a passionate scientist to our team to advance developmental research through cutting-edge technologies!