Postdoctoral Scientist​/Assistant Staff Scientist - Nath Lab

Position Summary

The Nath Lab at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation seeks an outstanding Postdoctoral Scientist or Assistant Staff Scientist to investigate the functional mechanisms of non‑coding genetic variants identified by GWAS in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and other autoimmune diseases.

Our laboratory integrates computational genomics, molecular biology, functional genomics, and immunology to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying disease-associated variants. We investigate enhancer and promoter activity, RNA splicing (sQTLs), gene expression regulation (eQTLs), chromatin accessibility, epigenetic regulation, and three-dimensional chromatin interactions.

• Functionally characterize non‑coding GWAS variants associated with SLE and related autoimmune diseases.
• Design and perform molecular biology experiments to determine how regulatory variants alter gene function.
• Perform assays including:
  • Reporter gene (luciferase) assays
  • Minigene splicing assays
  • CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing (knockout, knock‑in, CRISPRi, CRISPRa)
  • Gene expression analyses (RT‑qPCR, RNA‑seq)
  • Protein expression analyses (Western blot)
  • Chromatin and regulatory assays
• Culture and manipulate human immune cell lines and primary immune cells.
• Perform flow cytometry, T‑cell activation, cytokine profiling, proliferation, and apoptosis assays.
• Collaborate with computational biologists to integrate GWAS, functional genomics, and AI‑based predictions.
• Analyze experimental data and contribute to publications and grant applications.

• Ph.D. in a biological science, chemistry, physics, or a related field, M.D., or equivalent.

• Strong experimental skills in molecular biology
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strong publication record appropriate for career stage
• Molecular biology, cell culture of mammalian and immune cells, RNA biology and gene regulation, flow cytometry, bioinformatics or computational biology expertise (preferred)
• Programming experience in R or Python

Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; minimum 8 % company retirement contribution; vacation and sick leave; paid holidays; access to onsite café and fitness center; free parking. Relocation assistance available for candidates located more than 50 miles outside the Oklahoma City metro area.

The Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is a nonprofit biomedical research institute focused on diseases including Alzheimer’s, cancer, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. The institute performs cross‑disciplinary research and has been a leader in translational science.