Two NIH-funded postdoctoral positions are immediately available in Dr. Zhipeng Lu lab at USC Department of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences, in Los Angeles, CA. Our research is focused on in vivo RNA structures, interactions, and modification mechanisms. We develop and apply novel chemical and computational technologies to understand the structures and functions of RNA in basic cellular processes, with the ultimate goal of treating human diseases, including genetic disorders, cancers and viral infections. Recent studies include the development of several methods that enabled de novo discovery and modeling of RNA 2D/3D structures and interactions on a transcriptome wide scale in vivo, such as PARIS, SHARC, and CRSSANT, revealing new mechanisms in neurological disorders and infectious diseases.

The projects

We are recruiting postdoctoral fellows to work on the three major directions listed below. We also welcome and support novel and unconventional ideas that are broadly related to the current work in the lab.

The lab

Research in the Lu lab is highly interdisciplinary and collaborative. In addition to our state-of-the-art methods and core computational and chemical expertise for in vivo RNA 2D/3D analysis, we also have animal models, iPS/organide models, and human patient samples for a variety of RNA-related diseases. Postdocs are exposed to research questions and techniques in the forefront of various fields centered on RNA. This training environment is exceptionally valuable for individuals who are interested in pursuing careers in academia or scientific leadership positions in the pharmaceutical industry. The first postdoc from our group will be starting his own lab in 2023.

The candidate

Candidates should have or expect a Ph.D. and/or an M.D. and less than three years of postdoctoral experience. Candidates should also have significant experimental training in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or chemical biology, as evidenced by publications. Experience in various sequencing methods and computational biology is highly valued. The position is funded for at least four years, contingent on performance. To apply, please send a cover letter discussing your interests in the position, your CV, and contact information for three references to zhipengl@usc.edu. You can find additional information at www.zhipenglulab.org.   

Selected recent publications: