Postdoctoral Researcher in Osteoarthritis and Musculoskeletal Aging
Join Dr. Shouan Zhu’s lab to investigate molecular mechanisms of osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration using advanced in vitro and in vivo approaches.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in metabolic disease biology, osteoarthritis, or musculoskeletal research, seeking to develop independent research careers in translational biomedical sciences.
Overview
This postdoctoral position at Ohio University’s Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine offers the opportunity to conduct cutting-edge research in osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal aging under the supervision of Dr. Shouan Zhu. The successful candidate will explore metabolic and inflammatory pathways driving cartilage degeneration, employing techniques such as molecular biology, multi-omics analyses, and mouse models. The role emphasizes independent research, collaboration, and mentorship while contributing to high-impact publications and conference presentations. The position is ideal for researchers with a strong background in biomedical sciences, a passion for translational research, and a commitment to advancing musculoskeletal health.
What you'll do
- Design and execute original research projects investigating molecular and metabolic mechanisms underlying osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration, focusing on aging, obesity, and joint injury.
- Conduct and assist with in vivo mouse studies, including genetic, aging, obesity, and injury-associated osteoarthritis models, involving animal monitoring, experimental interventions, and phenotypic analyses.
- Perform advanced molecular and cellular biology techniques such as cell culture, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, histology, metabolic assays, and advanced imaging.
- Maintain detailed experimental records, perform quantitative and statistical analyses, and troubleshoot technical challenges to develop new research hypotheses.
- Prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, assist with grant applications, and present research findings at national and international conferences.
- Collaborate with faculty, research staff, students, and interdisciplinary teams to foster a rigorous and collegial research environment.
- Mentor and train students in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD or equivalent terminal degree in Biomedical Engineering, Biological Sciences, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Immunology, Metabolism, Musculoskeletal Biology, or a closely related field.
Language: English (proficiency required for communication and documentation)
Instruction: English
Publications: Strong evidence of productivity through peer-reviewed publications, manuscripts, or conference presentations.
- Proven research background in metabolism, obesity, immunometabolism, lipid biology, macrophage/inflammatory biology, epigenetics, aging, or musculoskeletal biology.
- Hands-on experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques, including cell culture, RNA and protein analysis, RT-qPCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence.
- Experience with animal models, tissue collection, histology, or metabolic-disease models.
- Familiarity with transcriptomic, single-cell, proteomic, metabolomic, or lipidomic approaches.
- Experience with R, Python, bioinformatics, or quantitative data analysis.
- Strong scientific writing and communication skills with a track record of peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations.
- Open to all qualified applicants; no specific nationality or residency restrictions mentioned.
- ABD candidates may be considered if the degree is expected within six months of hire.
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-01 · open until filled
Applicants must complete an online application and attach a detailed cover letter, current resume, and a list of at least three professional references with current contact details, including email addresses. The position remains open until filled.
- Cover letter
- Current resume
- List of at least three professional references with current contact details (including email addresses)
Contact
Jordyn Boyer· Hiring Contact
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