Postdoctoral Scholar in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Postdoctoral Scholar in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Position specifics

A postdoctoral position funded by the NIH is available immediately in the Laboratory of Dr. Santhosh Girirajan in the Departments of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at The Pennsylvania State University focused on the integrative computational analysis of mouse models for autism-associated genes. The goal of this research program is to develop and apply advanced computational and machine learning approaches to understand how genetic variation shapes neurodevelopmental phenotypes across molecular, cellular, circuit, and behavioral levels.

The postdoctoral scholar will lead efforts to develop and implement machine learning and statistical frameworks for the integrative analysis of quantitative behavioral data, brain imaging datasets, single‑cell RNA sequencing, and spatial transcriptomics generated from large‑scale mouse model studies. The position offers the opportunity to work in a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment at the interface of bioinformatics, computer science, neuroscience, and human genetics, with close interaction among experimental and computational teams.

Applicants should hold a PhD in bioinformatics, computer science, computational biology, neuroscience, statistics, engineering, or a related field. Required qualifications include strong expertise in computational data analysis and statistics, with a high level of motivation to work with high-dimensional biological datasets. Demonstrated interest in or experience with machine learning methods is essential. Familiarity with one or more of the following areas is desirable: omics data analysis (e.g., single‑cell RNA‑seq, spatial transcriptomics), neuroimaging analysis, or quantitative behavioral data.

Proficiency in Python, R, or related programming languages is required.

Applicants should also be willing to work with other investigators and mentor undergraduate and graduate students, as the research project emphasizes collaborative, team‑based science.

Interested applicants should submit a cover letter describing research interests and relevant experience, a CV, and a list of referees.

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.

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