Postdoctoral Fellow in Immunology - Gao Lab
Lead discovery-based research on lipid-based immunoregulatory checkpoints and cellular metabolism at the University of Utah.
Best for:Best for immunologists and cell biologists with expertise in cellular metabolism, high-throughput screening, and molecular biology.
Overview
The Yajing Gao Lab within the Department of Pathology at the University of Utah School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate lipid-based immunoregulatory checkpoints and lipid homeostasis in immune cells. The successful candidate will employ cutting-edge cross-disciplinary approaches, including high-throughput technologies, metabolomics, transcriptomics, and high-resolution imaging, paired with animal and human pathophysiology models. The role involves designing experiments, generating and interpreting high-dimensional datasets, collaborating with interdisciplinary research teams, and mentoring junior lab members. Applicants with a strong background in immunology, cellular metabolism, or chemical biology are encouraged to apply for this full-time position starting in January 2027.
What you'll do
- Design and execute independent experiments exploring lipid-immune interactions and lipid trafficking in immune cells.
- Develop and apply novel multi-model scientific techniques utilizing high-throughput metabolomics, transcriptomics, and imaging.
- Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data at internal group meetings, campus seminars, and national or international conferences.
- Collaborate closely with core facilities and interdisciplinary research groups across the university and external institutions.
- Supervise and mentor undergraduate students, graduate students, and laboratory technicians assisting with the research.
- Participate actively in grant writing and secure independent or joint funding acquisition with the Principal Investigator.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD and/or MD or equivalent degree in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, chemical biology or related fields
Language: English; highly proficient in scientific writing and verbal communication
Instruction: English
Publications: Track record of publication in high-quality journals (peer-reviewed or pre-print)
- Demonstrated expertise in cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, or chemical biology
- Strong interest in immuno-metabolism, metabolic physiology, and tissue immunology
- Proficiency in conducting independent scientific research and writing manuscripts in English
- Proven track record of publication in peer-reviewed journals or pre-prints
- Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills for collaborative environments
- Must hold a PhD, MD, or equivalent terminal degree prior to appointment
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2027-01-22
Interested applicants must submit their application through the university's online employment portal. The submission must include a comprehensive curriculum vitae, a cover letter detailing relevant experience and interests, and contact details for three professional references. Priority will be given to candidates who include a brief project proposal related to the laboratory's recent work.
- Cover letter
- CV
- 3 reference letters
Contact
Yajing Gao· Principal Investigator
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