Postdoctoral Scientist – Martens Lab

Primary Work Address: 1550 4th Street, Suite 190, San Francisco, CA,

We have an opportunity for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Martens lab at the University of California, San Francisco. Dr. Hanna Martens investigates how aging disrupts the tissue microenvironment by altering extracellular matrix organization, mechanical signaling, and cell-cell communication. We seek to understand how these changes influence cell behavior, tissue homeostasis, and regenerative capacity, with the long‑term goal of developing strategies to restore tissue function and promote healthy aging.

By integrating molecular genetics, quantitative imaging, single‑cell and spatial genomics, bioengineering, and engineered extracellular matrix mimetics with advanced 3D cell culture systems, we aim to uncover fundamental mechanisms of aging and develop strategies to restore tissue function and promote healthy aging. Our laboratory combines mouse genetics, genome engineering, advanced microscopy, quantitative image analysis, single‑cell and spatial multi‑omics, biomaterials, and engineered in‑vitro model systems to investigate how the aging microenvironment regulates cell behavior and tissue function.

More information about the lab and their work can be found by visiting marten slab.ucsf.edu.

About the Postdoctoral Scientist role:

We are seeking highly motivated scientists with a strong record of research accomplishment, intellectual curiosity, and the potential to develop into independent investigators. Applicants with expertise in aging biology, cell and molecular biology, stem cell biology, developmental biology, extracellular matrix biology, mechanobiology, immunology, bioengineering, biomaterials, or related disciplines are encouraged to apply. We also welcome candidates with strong computational backgrounds and experience analyzing single‑cell, spatial, or other high‑dimensional biological datasets.

• Mechanisms of tissue aging and regeneration
• Extracellular matrix deterioration, mechanosignaling, and fibroblast biology
• Stem cell niches and intercellular communication during aging
• Engineering ECM‑mimetic microenvironments and regenerative strategies to restore tissue function

• A cover letter describing your research accomplishments, scientific interests, and career goals
• Curriculum vitae
• Contact information for three professional references

We welcome applicants from diverse scientific backgrounds who are excited to answer fundamental questions in aging biology and develop innovative approaches to restore tissue function across the lifespan.

• An intellectually stimulating, collaborative, and supportive research environment
• Stable research support through HHMI
• Opportunities to pursue ambitious, high‑impact scientific questions
• Individualized scientific and career mentorship
• Strong support for fellowship and grant applications
• Opportunities to mentor students and junior scientists
• Access to world‑class genomics, imaging, bioengineering, and computational core facilities at UCSF
• Extensive collaborations across UCSF and the broader Bay Area scientific community
• A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package

• Develop and lead independent research projects
• Design, execute, and interpret rigorous experiments
• Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary research environment
• Present research at laboratory meetings, seminars, and international conferences
• Publish in leading scientific journals
• Pursue fellowship and career development opportunities
• Mentor graduate students and other trainees
• Contribute to a collaborative, rigorous, and supportive laboratory culture

• A Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, aging biology, bioengineering, computational biology, or a related discipline, completed before the anticipated start date
• A strong publication record demonstrating scientific creativity, technical excellence, and scientific rigor
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work both…