Postdoctoral Positions in Neural Development and RNA Splicing-Based Therapy at UChicago

Postdoctoral positions in brain development and RNA splicing-based therapy are available in the Zhang Lab (https://zhanglaboratory.org/) at the University of Chicago. The lab focuses on the function, mechanism, and therapeutic potential of mRNA processing in brain development and disorders. We develop and apply cutting-edge genetics, transcriptomics, and single-cell approaches to animal models and human cerebral organoids. Our recent work uncovered functions of cell type-specific mRNA isoforms, some of which are druggable targets for neurological disorders.

Successful applicants will work with Dr. Zhang and other UChicago experts in developmental neurobiology, RNA biology, and translational research. The Zhang lab is in the Department of Human Genetics and the Neuroscience Institute. The lab has established research platforms and close collaborations with UChicago labs. 

Recent publications from the lab:

• Upregulation of SYNGAP1 expression in mice and human neurons by redirecting alternative splicing. Yang R*, Feng X*, Arias-Cavieres A, Mitchell RM, Polo A, Hu K, Zhong R, Qi C, Zhang RS, Westneat N, Portillo CA, Nobrega MA, Hansel C, Garcia Iii AJ, Zhang X. Neuron. 2023;111(10):1637-50.
• PIE-seq: identifying RNA-binding protein targets by dual RNA-deaminase editing and sequencing. Ruan X, Hu K, Zhang X. Nat Commun. 2023;14(1):3275. Single-cell long-read sequencing in human cerebral organoids uncovers cell-type-specific and autism-associated exons.
• Yang Y*, Yang R*, Kang B, Qian S, He X†, Zhang X.† Cell Reports. 2023;42(11): 113335. Infernape uncovers cell type–specific and spatially resolved alternative polyadenylation in the brain.
• Kang B, Yang Y, Hu K, Ruan X, Liu Y, Lee P, Lee J, Wang J† and Zhang X.† Genome Research. 2023;33:1–14.
• Progenitor cell diversity in the developing mouse neocortex. Ruan X*, Kang B*, Qi C, Lin W, Wang J†, Zhang X.† Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2021;118(10).

Job Requirements:

• Recent PhD or MD/PhD within 1 years after graduation
• Established track records in neuroscience, molecular biology, developmental biology, or stem cell biology are preferred.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.

Interested candidates please send the following to Dr. Zhang (xczhang@uchicago.edu):

• A short summary of present and future research interests.
• CV with a list of publications.
• Contact information for two or more referees.