Research Postdoctoral Fellow - Pavani Lab

About The Laboratory

The Pavani Lab at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) seeks a motivated postdoctoral fellow to join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team focused on genome editing and red cell engineering for translational research. The successful candidate will lead projects that apply CRISPR/Cas9 and other genome engineering approaches in mammalian cell systems, with the goal of advancing novel therapeutic strategies and improve blood transfusions.

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Appointment: Full-time, fixed-term postdoctoral position (typical 1–3 years, renewable)

Start date: Flexible; position open until filled

Key Responsibilities

• Design, optimize, and execute genome-editing experiments (CRISPR/Cas systems, base editors, prime editors, or equivalent) in mammalian cells.
• Develop and maintain cell cultures, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and immortalized lines.
• Perform genome engineering workflows: vector design and cloning, transfection/electroporation, editing efficiency and genotyping assays.
• Characterize edited cells using flow cytometry (including sorting), immunophenotyping, and functional assays.
• Prepare next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays for on-/off-target analysis and deep sequencing of edited loci; analyze sequencing data.
• Troubleshoot experiments, optimize protocols, and maintain rigorous documentation and lab records.
• Present data at internal meetings and conferences; contribute to manuscript and grant preparation.

Basic Qualifications (Required)

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field (or equivalent by start date).
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with genome editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas or similar).
• Strong experience in mammalian cell culture and experimental manipulation.
• Practical experience with flow cytometry (sample prep, acquisition, and analysis).
• Ability to design experiments, analyze data quantitatively, and communicate findings clearly.

Preferred Qualifications (Highly Desirable)

• Experience with next-generation sequencing workflows relevant to genome editing (amplicon-seq, targeted sequencing, library prep) and basic bioinformatic analysis of NGS data.
• Previous work with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) — culture, maintenance, differentiation, or genetic manipulation.
• Familiarity with erythropoiesis and flow cytometry.
• Experience in vector design, and safe handling of viral vectors (Lenti).
• Track record of publications in the genome engineering or cell therapy fields.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams, and mentoring experience with junior trainees.

What You Will Do

• Conduct independent scholarly research and develop new methods and protocols.
• Participate in project planning, recording and evaluation of data.
• Acquire technical, lab management and grant writing skills.
• Participate in seminars, lectures, poster sessions and presentation at national meetings.
• Supervise junior lab members.
• Assist with other research projects.

https://www.research.chop.edu/people/giulia-pavani

https://pathology.med.upenn.edu/department/people/1789/giulia-pavani