Postdoctoral Scientist - Zhang Lab

Job Overview

Primary Work Address:
One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA, 95616.

The Role:

Postdoctoral Scientist in Dr. Elisa Zhang’s lab in the Departments of Physiology & Membrane Biology and Obstetrics & Gynecology at UC Davis. The lab studies uterine, placental, and pregnancy biology using single‑cell, spatial, in‑vitro, and surgical approaches in multiple model species and human organoids to investigate the uterine endometrium and maternal‑fetal interface, with the goal of improving female and fetal health.

We are hiring a Postdoctoral Scientist with a strong background in developmental, molecular, cellular, and/or reproductive biology (wet lab) or bioinformatics and high‑throughput data analysis (dry lab). Candidates must be capable of working independently, staying abreast of current literature, designing, executing, and interpreting experiments, collaborating effectively within a multidisciplinary team, and communicating clearly in internal meetings, conferences, and publications. This position also includes mentoring junior trainees and assisting with laboratory maintenance.

The ideal candidate will possess outstanding scientific credentials, a growth mindset, strong leadership and communication skills, and a commitment to research integrity and a positive lab culture.

• Design, execute, and analyze experiments to study uterine, placental, and pregnancy biology in mice, rhesus macaques, and human organoids.

• Develop and apply cutting‑edge single‑cell, spatial, in‑vitro, and in‑vivo technologies.

• Mentor junior trainees and help maintain lab facilities.

• Participate in manuscript preparation, grant writing, and scientific collaborations.

• An energetic, inclusive and collaborative lab environment that values innovation, rigor, and mentorship.
• Generous, stable research funding from HHMI.
• Strong publication and conference presentation opportunities.
• Individual 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.
• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Access to HHMI’s on‑demand learning and skill‑building content.

• Embryo implantation studies.
• 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).
• Implementation of these projects using a variety of approaches in mice, rhesus macaques, and human organoids.

• A Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Developmental Biology, Reproductive Biology, Neuroscience, Bioinformatics, or a related field, anticipated to be completed by the start date.
• A strong track record of research achievement with evidence of creativity, independence, analytical thinking, and proficiency with multiple approaches.
• Ability to learn quickly and work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team.
• Enthusiasm for tackling challenging biological questions with a strong growth mindset.
• Positive attitude, strategic, adaptive, and resourceful problem‑solving skills.
• Strong leadership skills and willingness to mentor others.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills coupled with effective interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Commitment to research integrity.
• Ability to contribute to fostering a positive, thriving lab culture.

• Cover letter: your scientific interests in relation to the lab’s focus and a summary of research accomplishments.
• Curriculum vitae (C.V.).
• Contact information for three professional references.

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping; dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, e.g., using a keyboard; communication skills using spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; mobility to move materials weighing up to several pounds. Persons with…