Postdoctoral Research Associate, Sanjana Lab

The Sanjana Lab at the New York Genome Center (NYGC) and New York University (NYU) is looking for a motivated individual to work as a Postdoctoral Research Associate within a highly creative and dynamic research team of scientists, bioengineers, human geneticists and computational biologists. The successful candidate will be mentored by Dr. Neville Sanjana on a project related to functional genomics and gene editing. Potential projects include Cas13-based profiling of noncoding RNAs in human neurons, in vivo CRISPR screens for immune and cancer phenotypes, protein design of new gene editors and cell therapies, and massively-parallel perturbations of enhancers and other functional noncoding genome elements.

About the lab

The Sanjana lab works at the intersection of genomics, synthetic biology and bioengineering. We are curious about many things and are passionate about what we do. We primarily develop new technologies for hacking and understanding biological systems. We try to learn from nature and to re-purpose what we learn to gain deeper insights into how genomes and neural systems function. In the lab, we modify genomes, perform high-throughput screens, differentiate human neurons from stem cells, find vulnerabilities in cancer cells using patient-derived organoids and have a lot of fun in the process. We aim to have a tangible impact on improving human health by creating new biological tools and fundamental biological discovery.

About the position

We are looking for a postdoctoral scientist eager to understand the impact of human genetic variation on gene expression and phenotypes at the cellular, tissue and physiological levels. Potential projects will combine cutting-edge human genetics and genome technology development. In addition, we envision that the postdoctoral scientist will play a major role in developing new projects in a supportive team science environment.

To be considered for this role, please provide: 1) CV with a list of publications; 2) a short summary of your present and future research interests; 3) a list of three references and their contact information with your application.

Required Skills

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or MD-PhD, have prior research experience in any of the following: molecular biology, biochemistry, computational biology and/or functional genomics and will have first-author publications. The candidate will be expected to plan and carry out research tasks independently and write-up/present findings on a regular basis. This position can be tailored to a candidate with strong molecular biology skills who are looking to improve their computational skills, or to a candidate with a stronger background in computational genetics or genomics looking to develop expertise in cutting-edge experimental methods.

About NYGC: A cutting-edge environment for genomics

NYGC is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with the leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.

Salary

The pay for this position is $88,000; this includes $70,000 base pay and an $18,000 per year taxable housing allowance.

In addition, NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits as well as generous time off. This includes Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Holidays, Sick, and Other Leave, including a paid winter break; a 401(k) match; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; employee Tuition Reimbursement; flexible schedules and telework options for some positions; an Employee Assistance Program; and much more.

Equal Opportunity

We are committed to fostering a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to thrive. We believe that bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives leads to greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery. Valuing and supporting each employee in reaching their full potential strengthens our organization and enhances our collective success. We recognize that creating an environment where all employees feel valued and included requires sustained effort and dedication from the entire organization.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. NYGC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

FLSA Status – Exempt

This position is eligible for visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.

Required SkillsRequired Experience