Postdoctoral Scientist - Zhang Lab

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

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.

• 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.

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.

• 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 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.

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