Postdoctoral Scholar in Molecular Neuroscience and RNA Biology Full-time

Postdoctoral positions in molecular neuroscience and RNA biology are available in Dr. Xiaochang Zhang’s Lab (https://zhanglaboratory.org/) at the University of Chicago. The lab focuses on the function, mechanism, and therapeutic potential of mRNA processing in brain development and disorders. We develop and apply cutting-edge genetic, genomic, and single-cell approaches to animal models and human cerebral organoids. Our work uncovered functions of cell type-specific mRNA isoforms and identified druggable targets for neurological disorders.

The Zhang lab is in the Department of Human Genetics and the Neuroscience Institute. The lab has established research platforms and close collaborations with UChicago labs. Successful applicants will work with Dr. Zhang and other experts in neurobiology, molecular biology, and human genetics. The lab is in the Cummings Life Science Center, with easy access to genomics, imaging, and other core facilities.

Recent publications from the lab:

• Alternative splicing-triggered mRNA decay informs splice-switching targets for neurodevelopmental disorders. Hu K, Yang R, Qiu J, Feng X, LaPre KJ, Tanouye J, Yang Y, Zhang X. J Clin Invest. 2026 Feb 12:e197271.
• Upregulation of SYNGAP1 expression in mice and human neurons by redirecting alternative splicing. Yang R*, Feng X*, Arias-Cavieres A, Mitchell RM, Polo A, Hu K, Zhong R, Qi C, Zhang RS, Westneat N, Portillo CA, Nobrega MA, Hansel C, Garcia Iii AJ, Zhang X. Neuron (cover). 2023;111(10):1637-50.
• PIE-seq: identifying RNA-binding protein targets by dual RNA-deaminase editing and sequencing. Ruan X, Hu K, Zhang X. Nat Commun. 2023;14(1):3275.
• Infernape uncovers cell type–specific and spatially resolved alternative polyadenylation in the brain. Kang B, Yang Y, Hu K, Ruan X, Liu Y, Lee P, Lee J, Wang J† and Zhang X.† Genome Research. 2023;33:1–14.

Job Requirements:

• Recent PhD or MD/PhD within 1 year after graduation
• Established track records in molecular neuroscience, computational biology, or developmental biology are preferred.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Interested candidates please send a pdf file including the following to Dr. Zhang ([Please click the Apply button for the link or address]):

• A summary of present and future research interests.
• CV with a list of publications.
• Contact information for two or three references.

Tagged as: Life Sciences