Postdoctoral Scientist - Zhang Lab

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) advances the discovery and sharing of scientific knowledge to benefit us all. As a biomedical research organization and philanthropy, HHMI supports a vibrant community of academic researchers, educators, students, and professionals. Together, we’re unlocking the fundamentals of biology and building an open, inclusive future for science.

We have an outstanding opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scientist to study uterine, placental, and pregnancy biology by joining the lab team of Dr. Elisa Zhang, Freeman Hrabowski Scholar . The Freeman Hrabowski Scholar program is noteworthy for selecting outstanding basic researchers who have prioritized scientific excellence in research while simultaneously creating lab climates in which everyone can thrive and benefit from their leadership and inclusive mentorship. 

Located on the Davis campus in the Departments of Physiology & Membrane Biology (PMB) and Obstetrics & Gynecology (OB/GYN) at the University of California, Davis, the Zhang lab group is broadly interested in mammalian stem cell biology, reproduction, and development. They use cutting-edge single-cell, spatial, in vitro, and surgical approaches in multiple model species and in human organoids to investigate the uterine endometrium and maternal-fetal interface, with the goal of improving female and fetal health. More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting

About the Postdoctoral Scientist role:
Postdoctoral Scientist candidates are expected to have a strong track record of rigorous research experience in the biosciences with high potential for further scientific and professional growth. “Wet lab” candidates should have a strong background in developmental, molecular, cellular, and/or reproductive biology, or related disciplines. “Dry lab” candidates should have a strong foundation in bioinformatics and prior experience analyzing single-cell RNA-seq and/or other high-throughput datasets (e.g. RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, CUT&Tag, proteomics, etc.).

Candidates are expected to be capable of working independently, including staying abreast of current literature; designing, executing, and interpreting experiments; collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team; and clearly communicating in internal meetings, at international conferences, and in publications as well as fellowships and grants. In addition, this position includes mentoring junior trainees as well as assisting with laboratory maintenance. The ideal candidate will possess outstanding scientific credentials and a strong growth mentality, thrive in a dynamic environment, and demonstrate strong leadership and communication skills.

What we provide:

• An energetic, intellectually vibrant, and fun lab team that values innovation, excellence, inclusion, creativity, rigor, training, mentorship, and collaboration.

• Generous and stable research funding from HHMI.

• Strong publication opportunities.

• Opportunities to present at seminars, symposia, and conferences.

• Mentorship and support from Dr. Zhang tailored to your scientific and career goals.

• Access to direct support in writing and securing fellowships.

• Opportunities to mentor the next generation of scientists.

• Access to cutting-edge instrumentation and facilities.

• Joining the supportive, inclusive, and collaborative UC Davis research community. Ideally situated in the peaceful, family-friendly town of Davis , located between the San Francisco Bay Area and Sacramento, with beautiful Lake Tahoe a mere 2 hours away.

• Cross-disciplinary collaborative opportunities at UC Davis and beyond, including with the UC Davis Medical Center, UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, and UC Davis Primate Center.

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.

• Access to HHMI’s on-demand learning and skill-building content.
  

What you’ll do:

Several ongoing and emerging directions are available, including the following:

• Embryo implantation

• Placental development and function

• Uterine endometrial stem cells, their niche, and intercellular communication during the menstrual cycle

• Uterine and maternal-fetal interface dysfunction (e.g. endometriosis, preeclampsia, etc.)

For each of these areas, the lab uses a variety of approaches in mice, rhesus macaques, and human organoids.

What you bring:

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, Reproductive Biology, Neuroscience, Bioinformatics, or related field, anticipated to be completed by the start date of the position

• A strong track record of research achievement with evidence of creativity, independence, analytical thinking, organizational skills, and proficiency with multiple approaches.

• Ability to learn quickly and to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.

• Enthusiasm for tackling challenging biological questions with a strong growth mindset.

• Positive attitude with a strategic, adaptive, and resourceful approach to problem-solving.

• Strong leadership skills as well as willingness to mentor others, share expertise, and contribute to the collective success of the team.

• Strong verbal and written communications skills coupled with effective interpersonal and collaboration skills.

• Commitment to research integrity.

• Ability to contribute to fostering a positive, thriving lab culture.

Application instructions:
Please include the following items as part of your application –

• A cover letter, including your scientific interests in relation to the lab's focus and a summary of research accomplishments
• Your curriculum vitae (C.V.)
• Contact information for three professional references

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act. #LI-NG1