Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Pavani Lab

Postdoctoral Fellow Opportunity

The Pavani Lab at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) seeks a motivated postdoctoral fellow to join a collaborative, multidisciplinary team focused on genome editing and red cell engineering for translational research. The successful candidate will lead projects that apply CRISPR/Cas9 and other genome engineering approaches in mammalian cell systems, with the goal of advancing novel therapeutic strategies and improving blood transfusions.

Key responsibilities include:

• Design, optimize, and execute genome-editing experiments (CRISPR/Cas systems, base editors, prime editors, or equivalent) in mammalian cells.
• Develop and maintain cell cultures, including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and immortalized lines.
• Perform genome engineering workflows: vector design and cloning, transfection/electroporation, editing efficiency and genotyping assays.
• Characterize edited cells using flow cytometry (including sorting), immunophenotyping, and functional assays.
• Prepare next-generation sequencing (NGS) assays for on-/off-target analysis and deep sequencing of edited loci; analyze sequencing data.
• Troubleshoot experiments, optimize protocols, and maintain rigorous documentation and lab records.
• Present data at internal meetings and conferences; contribute to manuscript and grant preparation.

Basic qualifications:

• PhD in Molecular Biology, Genetics, Cell Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with genome editing techniques (CRISPR/Cas or similar).
• Strong experience in mammalian cell culture and experimental manipulation.
• Practical experience with flow cytometry (sample prep, acquisition, and analysis).
• Ability to design experiments, analyze data quantitatively, and communicate findings clearly.

Preferred qualifications (highly desirable):

• Experience with next-generation sequencing workflows relevant to genome editing (amplicon-seq, targeted sequencing, library prep) and basic bioinformatic analysis of NGS data.
• Previous work with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) — culture, maintenance, differentiation, or genetic manipulation.
• Familiarity with erythropoiesis and flow cytometry.
• Experience in vector design, and safe handling of viral vectors (Lenti).
• Track record of publications in the genome engineering or cell therapy fields.
• Strong organizational skills, ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams, and mentoring experience with junior trainees.

Salary range: $20,800.00 - $ Annually. If you are applying for a Research Post-Doctoral Fellow role, please refer to this link for salary guidelines: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-3

At CHOP, we are committed to fair and transparent pay practices. Factors such as skills and experience could result in an offer above the salary range noted in this job posting. For more information regarding CHOP's Compensation and Benefits, .