Research Fellow - Pharmacology & Ophthalmology

Research Fellow – Pharmacology & Ophthalmology

Join Mayo Clinic as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in the Departments of Ophthalmology and Pharmacology. The role studies cellular and molecular mechanisms of retinal disease with an emphasis on retinal fibrosis, translating laboratory discoveries into therapeutic approaches for patients.

$64,079 - $74,963 / year;
Education, experience and tenure may be considered along with internal equity when job offers are extended.

• Medical: Multiple plan options.
• Dental: Delta Dental or reimbursement account for flexible coverage.
• Vision: Affordable plan with national network.
• Pre-Tax Savings: HSA and FSAs for eligible expenses.
• Retirement: Competitive retirement package to secure your future.

The successful candidate will:

• Develop and apply cell culture models of retinal fibrosis and retinal degenerative diseases.
• Utilize molecular biology, biochemistry, and imaging techniques to study disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets.
• Participate in the collection, processing, and cataloging of clinical samples in collaboration with Ophthalmology colleagues.
• Contribute to grant applications, manuscript preparation, and presentations at national and international meetings.
• Mentor graduate students and research staff in experimental design, data analysis, and laboratory techniques.
• Engage in collaborative projects across the Departments of Pharmacology and Ophthalmology at Mayo Clinic.

• Gain exposure to both laboratory-based and clinically relevant research.
• Develop skills in translational research, experimental design, and advanced technologies in vision science.
• Receive structured mentorship in grant writing, scientific communication, and career planning.
• Participate in professional development workshops, networking events, and training programs at Mayo Clinic.
• Prepare for an independent academic or industry career in Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, or related fields.

The fellow will have access to state-of-the-art core facilities in imaging, genomics, proteomics, and animal modeling, as well as a robust clinical research infrastructure. Our lab works closely with clinicians, basic scientists, and industry collaborators, providing unique opportunities for innovation and translation.

• MD or PhD in ophthalmology, vision science, pharmacology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with cell culture models relevant to retinal or ocular biology.
• Proficiency in molecular and biochemical methods (e.g., Western blotting, qPCR, immunostaining, ELISA, microscopy).
• Strong track record of research productivity, as evidenced by publications or conference presentations.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to work both independently and in a collaborative team environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with interest in scientific writing and grant development.

Exempt

Full Time

No

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status or disability status. Mayo Clinic participates in E‑Verify and may provide the Social Security Administration and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security with information from each new employee's Form I‑9 to confirm work authorization.

Kara Schott