Postdoctoral Research Associate, Lappalainen & Sanjana Labs

The Lappalainen & Sanjana Labs at the New York Genome Center (NYGC) are looking for a motivated individual to work as a Postdoctoral Research Associate within a highly creative and dynamic research team of scientists, computational biologists, bioengineers, and human geneticists. The successful candidate will be jointly mentored by Drs. Tuuli Lappalainen and Neville Sanjana at the intersection of statistical genetics and functional genomics analyses and tech development and have the opportunity to also be affiliated with New York University.

About the labs

The Sanjana lab works at the intersection of genomics and bioengineering. We are curious about many things and are passionate about what we do. We primarily develop new technologies for hacking and understanding biological systems. We try to learn from nature and to re-purpose what we learn to gain deeper insights into how genomes and neural systems function. In the lab, we modify genomes, perform high-throughput screens, differentiate human neurons from stem cells, watch synapses rewire, find vulnerabilities in cancer cells and have a lot of fun in the process. We aim to have a tangible impact on improving human health by creating new biological tools and fundamental biological discovery.

The Lappalainen lab studies functional genetic variation in the human populations by analyzing how genetic variants affect molecular and cellular traits, and how these cellular changes contribute to genetic risk for both common and rare diseases and traits. We analyze these questions both by computational analysis of large genomic, transcriptomic and multi-omic data sets, and by experimental approaches. Our lab includes experts across the field of systems genetics, from statistical genetics and genomics to molecular genomics.

About the position

We are looking for a postdoctoral scientist eager to understand the impact of human genetic variation on gene expression and phenotypes at the cellular, tissue and physiological levels. This position will be at the intersection of computational and wet-lab work, with co-mentorship by both PIs and membership in both labs. The projects for the postdoctoral scientist combines cutting-edge human genetics and genome technology development, with possible projects in CRISPR and single-cell multi-omics, and its integration with GWAS and eQTL data, including novel data from projects such as Developmental GTEx. Recently, the Sanjana and Lappalainen labs developed STING-seq (Systematic Targeted Inhibition of Noncoding GWAS loci with sequencing): https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2021.04.07.438882v1. We seek to extend STING-seq to new cell types (including primary cells) and develop next-generation genome editing approaches to answer fundamental questions in human genetics, GWAS and disease biology. In addition, we envision that the postdoctoral scientist will play a major role in developing new projects in a supportive team science environment.

To be considered for this role, please provide: 1) CV with a list of publications; 2) a short summary of your present and future research interests; 3) a list of three references and their contact information with your application.

Required Skills

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or MD-PhD, have prior research experience in any of the following: molecular biology, statistical genetics, biochemistry, computational biology and/or functional genomics and will have prior peer-reviewed publications. The candidate will be expected to plan and carry out research tasks independently and write-up/present findings on a regular basis. This position can be tailored to a candidate with strong molecular biology skills who are looking to improve their computational skills, or to a candidate with a stronger background in computational genetics or genomics looking to develop expertise in cutting-edge experimental methods.

Required Experience

About NYGC: A cutting-edge environment for genomics

NYGC is an independent, nonprofit, academic research organization dedicated to advancing genomic research. NYGC scientists and staff are furthering new approaches to diagnosing and treating neurological diseases and cancer through their unique capabilities in whole genome sequencing, RNA sequencing, state-of-the art analytics, and the development of genomic tools. NYGC concentrates specifically on disease-based research in the following areas: neuropsychiatric disease (autism, schizophrenia, bipolar); neurodegenerative disease (ALS, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s), and cancer.

Located in Lower Manhattan, the New York Genome Center was founded by and remains closely affiliated with the leading academic medical centers and research universities in the New York region, engaging in research projects with and for these institutions. Essential to our collaborative work is an outstanding faculty, whose members typically hold a joint appointment at NYGC and a partner university. They support our scientific mission by conducting independent research in areas of mutual interest to us and the wider scientific community.

Salary

The pay for this position is $88,000; this includes $70,000 base pay and an $18,000 per year taxable housing allowance.

In addition, NYGC offers a full range of medical, financial, and other benefits as well as generous time off. This includes Medical/Dental/Vision for employees & dependent(s); Vacation, Holidays, Sick, and Other Leave, including a paid winter break; a 401(k) match; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; employee Tuition Reimbursement; flexible schedules and telework options for some positions; an Employee Assistance Program; and much more.

Equal Opportunity

We are committed to fostering a workplace environment that is welcoming and fair to all, ensuring that every employee has the opportunity to thrive. We believe that bringing together individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives leads to greater collaboration, innovation, and discovery. Valuing and supporting each employee in reaching their full potential strengthens our organization and enhances our collective success. We recognize that creating an environment where all employees feel valued and included requires sustained effort and dedication from the entire organization.

The New York Genome Center is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, creed, color, gender, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic predisposition or carrier status, protected veteran or military status, domestic violence victim status, partnership status, caregiver status, alienage or citizenship status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. NYGC takes affirmative action in support of its policy to hire and advance in employment individuals who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

FLSA Status – Exempt

This position is eligible for visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.

The ideal candidate will hold a PhD or MD-PhD, have prior research experience in any of the following: molecular biology, statistical genetics, biochemistry, computational biology and/or functional genomics and will have prior peer-reviewed publications. The candidate will be expected to plan and carry out research tasks independently and write-up/present findings on a regular basis. This position can be tailored to a candidate with strong molecular biology skills who are looking to improve their computational skills, or to a candidate with a stronger background in computational genetics or genomics looking to develop expertise in cutting-edge experimental methods.