HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell Biology

HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell Biology

We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Harper lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. Our laboratory works at the intersection of protein and organelle quality control, the ubiquitin system, and autophagy and its role in neurodegenerative disease. Through this systematic view, we seek to answer fundamental questions in cell biology and biochemistry:
What are the molecular pathways that contribute to organelle repair in response to damage, with a primary focus on the endolysosomal system and mitochondria? What are the protein interaction networks that make up dynamic organelles? How do familial mutations in key organellar systems promote diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease? The successful candidate will work with Dr. Wade Harper to develop a research project within the scope of the lab focus.

In addition to carrying out research, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members, and contribute to overall lab operations and a collaborative environment.

Salary and Benefits:
This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at . With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) –UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

Basic Qualifications:

Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in such as Cell or Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or related fields. Expertise in any of the following fields would be beneficial: mass spectrometry, protein purification, gene editing/cell engineering, structural biology.

Additional Qualifications:

If visa sponsorship is needed, Harvard retains the discretion to determine which visa status is appropriate and whether a visa sponsorship application will ultimately be submitted, including payment of any applicable fees.

Special Instructions:
Required documents:
Curriculum Vitae, Statement of Research for PhD work, Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab. A note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference. Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work. Expected Dates:
Final date to receive applications:
July 17, 2026.

Start date:

The position is expected to start on or around September 1, 2026 with some flexibility. Duration:
This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Contact Information:
Wade Harper, Harvard Medical School, Department of Cell Biology, 240 Longwood Ave., Boston, MA 02115. Contact Email: vard.edu. Minimum Number of References

Required:

3. Maximum Number of References Allowed: 3.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement:
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy.

Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.