Postdoctoral Scholar

Postdoctoral Research Position – Department of Cell and Biological Systems

The Yandong Zhou Lab in the Department of Cell and Biological Systems at the Penn State College of Medicine (Hershey, PA) is seeking a highly motivated and skilled postdoctoral scholar to join our multidisciplinary team. We investigate mechanisms of STIM/Orai‑mediated Ca²⁺ signaling using an integrated approach—biochemistry, biophysics, omics, and transgenic mouse models—to deepen our understanding of calcium signaling under both physiological and pathological conditions, including fibrosis and cancer progression.

Our goal is to develop targeted therapeutic strategies that modulate ion channel activity.

Under the guidance of the principal investigator, the postdoc will take responsibility for specific, ongoing research projects and contribute to the overall goals of the lab. The position offers opportunities to expand scientific knowledge, gain technical expertise, and develop professionally toward an independent research career.

This is a term position; length of the term will be discussed during the interview process. Continuation past the term length discussed will be based on university need, performance, and/or availability of funding. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

• Designing and conducting experiments
• Analyzing, interpreting, and presenting research findings
• Participating in manuscript and grant writing
• Attending and presenting at seminars and national conferences
• Assisting in lab management and supervision of junior members
• Developing new research methods and contributing to other projects in the lab

• Ph.D. in biomedical sciences or related field
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, rodent models, and standard molecular/cell biology techniques (e.g., Western blot, PCR, transfection, construct design, shRNA/CRISPR, immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, live imaging)
• Preferred expertise in one or more of the following areas: cancer biology, vascular biology, signal transduction, protein biochemistry/biophysics, ion channels, or electrophysiology

To apply, please include the following items as part of your application:

• A cover letter clearly describing your interest in this position and addressing the following questions:
  • How has your previous work advanced scientific understanding?
  • Which scientific questions are you most enthusiastic about exploring?
  • How would investigating these questions in our lab help advance your career objectives?
  • How do your skills, experiences, and perspective complement and enhance ongoing research in the Lab?
• A current curriculum vitae, including a complete list of publications and pre‑prints. For each listed work, please briefly (2–3 sentences) explain your specific contributions.
• Contact information for at least three professional references.

Candidates who are highly productive, motivated, and passionate about science, with a wide range of research experience, are encouraged to apply.

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees designed to support both personal and professional well‑being. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (

Note:

For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.