Open Positions

Postdoctoral Research Associate

A NIH funded postdoctoral position is available in the Stem Cell and Disease Modeling Laboratory at the University of Rochester. This position will focus on using patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and relevant animal models for mechanistic and therapeutic approaches towards retinal degenerative diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and CLN3-Batten disease.  The overall objective of our laboratory is to understand the molecular mechanism(s) of specific retinal and neurodegenerative diseases with the goal of developing pharmacological therapies. Furthermore, the research projects in the laboratory have an integrated focus on retinal physiology, neurodegenerative diseases, stem cells, tissue engineering and pharmacology. The tissue/cells utilized to interrogate the molecular mechanism(s) of retinal and neurodegenerative diseases, including inherited and age-related macular degeneration, include patient-derived human iPSCs, gene-edited (CRISPR) hiPSCs, primary eye tissue and relevant animal models.

Well-qualified candidates will have the following qualifications/ experience: A Ph.D. in biological sciences. Prior experience in retinal cell biology, animal models, cell culture tissue engineering and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing  is preferred; especially experience working with hiPSCs and retinal cells and tissue engineering. Background in data science and machine learning is highly desirable and would be advantageous.

Please submit your application including a cover letter, CV, and names of three professional references to ruchira_singh@urmc.rochester.edu.

Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician will be responsible for conducting research under the supervision of lab manager and principal investigator in a Stem Cell and disease modeling lab at the University of Rochester Flaum Eye Institute. Techniques include but are not limited to cell culture, quantitative real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry, western blotting, confocal microscopy. The research personnel will also be responsible for ensuring maintenance of laboratory supplies and equipment as well as proper disposal of waste material. The scientific research will be focused on utilizing human embryonic stem cells (hESC) and human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) to model and study retinal degenerative diseases. The suitable candidate should demonstrate the ability to perform experiments and carry out cell culture work independently under the general guidance of senior laboratory personnel.

Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences and independent research experience. Prior experience in retinal cell biology and cell culture is preferred; especially experience culturing and working with human stem cells and retinal cells.   Required computer skills include familiarity with MS Office. Experience with and knowledge of other statistical and image analysis software would be advantageous. Weekend work as deemed necessary for taking care of cells may be required.

Interested candidates should contact the PI at  ruchira_singh@urmc.rochester.edu.

Graduate/Undergraduate Student

We are always looking for motivated students with a passion of science who truly believe they can make a difference!!!

Interested students should contact the PI at  ruchira_singh@urmc.rochester.edu