Postdoctoral Fellow

Our lab integrates molecular, genetic, and comparative approaches to better understand how germ-line processes shape genome evolution, with a particular focus on meiotic recombination and transposon–genome interactions.

A major area of interest for the lab is the evolutionary interplay between KRAB–zinc finger proteins, known as KZFPs, and retroviruses and/or retro-elements. We study how rapidly evolving KZFPs recognize and repress transposable elements, and how these KZFPs conflicts are subsequently co-opted to generate novel gene regulatory programs that drive evolutionary innovation in mammals.

Secondly, we are majorly focused on PRDM9, a rapidly evolving histone methyltransferase that specifies the location of recombination hotspots in mammals. We are now investigate how PRDM9-binding and chromatin modification directs the initiation of double-strand breaks, and how variations in this process shapes genome stability and genetic crossover outcomes.

We hope to understand how perturbations in PRDM9 function and hotspot regulation contribute to infertility and aneuploidy in humans, thus bridging a mechanistic insight with a translational application in the field of reproductive health.

We are particularly interested in candidates with a strong background in genetics, genomics, cell biology, or evolutionary biology, who are interested in connecting mechanistic and evolutionary perspectives. Experience with meiosis, germ cell biology, transposable elements, or computational genomics is welcome but not required.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.