Research Associate Position in Kidney Genetics and Genomics

About the role

The Division of Renal-Electrolyte and Hypertension in the Department of Medicine at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania seeks candidates for a Research Associate position in the Academic Support Staff. This appointment will be initially for one (1) year and continuation during that time period and renewal are based on satisfactory performance and availability of funding (limited to three (3) years). Expertise is required in the specific area of human genetics, genomics, genetic epidemiology, molecular genetics, or a closely related biomedical research field, with demonstrated research experience applying genetic and genomic approaches to human disease. Experience in kidney genetics and rare kidney disease research is preferred, including research involving nephrotic syndrome, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, congenital kidney and urinary tract abnormalities, or related disorders. Experience with exome and/or genome sequencing, analysis and interpretation of genetic variants, and functional characterization of disease-associated variants is also preferred. Applicants must have a Ph.D. degree.

Responsibilities

• Lead research projects directed toward the discovery and characterization of rare genetic variants predisposing to rare kidney diseases, including congenital anomalies of the kidney and urinary tract, ADAMTS13-related diseases, and nephrotic syndrome.
• Conduct functional studies in cellular and vertebrate disease models; utilize DNA microarrays, exome and genome sequencing technologies, mouse models, and transcriptomic, epigenomic, and proteomic approaches.
• Analyze and interpret complex genomic and molecular data.
• Provide scientific leadership for research projects.
• Supervise laboratory technicians, junior bioinformaticians, and students.
• Present research findings at national and international scientific meetings.
• Publish results in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• Lead multidisciplinary research projects and expand expertise in genomic and multi-omic approaches.
• Conduct functional studies of disease-associated genetic variants.
• Mentor junior research staff and trainees.
• Collaborate with investigators across Penn Medicine.
• Disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications and presentations at national and international scientific meetings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree required.
• Expertise required in human genetics, genomics, genetic epidemiology, molecular genetics, or a closely related biomedical research field, with demonstrated research experience applying genetic and genomic approaches to human disease.
• Preferred experience in kidney genetics and rare kidney disease research, including research involving nephrotic syndrome, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, congenital kidney and urinary tract abnormalities, or related disorders.
• Preferred experience with exome and/or genome sequencing, analysis and interpretation of genetic variants, and functional characterization of disease-associated variants.