Postdoctoral Associate

About the role

The Sahoo Lab at the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to join a dynamic research team focused on understanding the genetic and functional mechanisms driving inherited bone marrow failure and predisposition to Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS)/Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Responsibilities

• Lead studies integrating mouse and induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models, CRISPR genome editing, molecular biology, flow cytometry, and single-cell multi-omics to dissect disease mechanisms.
• Develop and execute experiments to define how germline gain-of-function mutations activate chronic inflammatory signaling, impair hematopoietic stem cell function, and drive progression to myeloid malignancy.
• Collaborate with other researchers to build and maintain strong scientific networks and secure funding opportunities.
• Mentor junior scientists, develop leadership and mentoring skills, and contribute to the lab’s success through active participation in grant writing, presentations, and collaborations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in hematology, genetics, molecular biology, cancer biology, or a related biological science, awarded within the last four years.
• Experience with mouse models of hematopoiesis and/or cancer, including in vivo techniques such as blood collection and tail vein injection.
• Hands-on experience with primary hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells and/or iPSC models.
• Proficiency in wet-lab techniques, including molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, and flow cytometry.
• Experience with CRISPR-based genome editing.
• Self-motivated, creative, and detail-oriented.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Experience mentoring or training students and/or research staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with single-cell multi-omics approaches.
• Analysis of large-scale genomic and/or transcriptomic datasets.
• Experience with mitochondrial or innate immune/inflammation assays.

Benefits

The position is funded for up to three years, with full access to Virginia Tech and Children's National Hospital core facilities and seminars. The candidate will also have the opportunity to mentor and train junior scientists, developing the leadership and mentoring skills essential to an independent career.

Pay

$65,000 - $71,000, commensurate with experience.

Schedule

Full-time, 40+ hours per week.