Postdoctoral Fellow – Retinal Ganglion Cell Neuroprotection and Extracellular Vesicles

Our research program investigates the molecular mechanisms regulating retinal ganglion cell (RGC) survival, axon regeneration, retinal circuit organization, and visual pathway connectivity. We aim to develop innovative therapeutic strategies for glaucoma, one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness, and other optic neuropathies. A major focus of our research is the development of small extracellular vesicle (sEV)-based therapies for RGC neuroprotection.

Our multidisciplinary studies integrate molecular and cellular biology, transcriptomics, microRNA profiling, proteomics, metabolomics, electrophysiology, advanced imaging, and stem cell technologies to investigate fundamental mechanisms of retinal function and develop novel therapeutic approaches. Our research has established a foundation for developing more effective and mechanistically defined cell-free therapies for glaucoma.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to analyze and integrate existing transcriptomic, microRNA, proteomic, and metabolomic datasets from therapeutic sEV populations and recipient target cells to identify molecular pathways and intercellular signaling networks underlying sEV-mediated neuroprotection. This research may reveal mechanisms that determine RGC resilience and vulnerability, identify novel therapeutic targets, and advance strategies to preserve RGC survival, structural integrity, and function in glaucoma. The position offers an opportunity to pursue discovery-driven research in a collaborative NIH intramural research environment and to contribute to the development of innovative approaches for preventing vision loss.

Candidates must have a Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in neuroscience, molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or a related field, and less than three years of postdoctoral experience. Recent doctoral graduates are strongly encouraged to apply.

A strong background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or cell biology is desirable.

Experience in computational biology, bioinformatics, transcriptomic data analysis, or integration of multi-omics datasets is also desirable.

Familiarity with statistical analysis and programming tools for biological data analysis would be an advantage.

Additional experience with mouse handling and disease models, tissue collection, organoids, high-throughput methods, or advanced microscopy is welcome but not required.

We welcome candidates with strong scientific curiosity, critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, and an interest in interdisciplinary research combining experimental and computational approaches.