Postdoctoral Associate - Genetics and Functional Genomics

We are seeking a Postdoctoral Associate in the human molecular genetics/genomics field for the laboratory of Dr. Rinki Ratnapriya at Baylor College of Medicine. The lab focuses on harnessing genomic technologies to address translational and clinical bioinformatic challenges related to retinal and macular degenerative diseases, particularly the role of non-coding cis-regulatory sequence variation.

About the role

The lab generates high-throughput functional genomics datasets (genome, epigenome, transcriptome) from disease-relevant tissues and cells, using computational approaches to integrate and analyze this data. The successful candidate will contribute to understanding the molecular components and regulatory mechanisms underlying gene expression variation in retinal diseases.

Responsibilities

• Plans, designs, conducts, and analyzes independent and collaborative research projects focused on retinal biology and disease mechanisms.
• Performs experiments using human tissues, model organisms, and induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cells, including cell culture, differentiation, characterization, and disease-relevant assays.
• Designs, implements, and operates bioinformatics pipelines using existing analytical tools for NGS applications, including analysis of bulk and single-cell genomic and transcriptomic datasets.
• Applies intellectual curiosity and a passion for data science to address biomedical research questions, particularly those related to retinal biology and disease.
• Prepares manuscripts, abstracts, presentations, and grant-related materials for dissemination of research findings through scientific journals and conferences.
• Maintains accurate and comprehensive laboratory records, analyzes and organizes research data, and ensures compliance with institutional and laboratory policies and procedures.
• Collaborates with investigators and research teams across disciplines and contributes to the development of new research directions and projects.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• MD or Ph.D. in Basic Science, Health Science, or a related field.
• No prior experience required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong programming skills in Python and R, with a solid background in molecular biology.
• Experience in ophthalmology or vision research.
• Demonstrated scientific productivity, rigor, and creativity, with a strong record of publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals.

Pay

Baylor College of Medicine typically follows NIH stipulated stipend guidelines for Postdoctoral Associates.