Postdoctoral Associate

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Surgery at Duke University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated and creative postdoctoral researcher to lead innovative projects in RNA Biology and Engineering. The successful candidate will focus on designing and characterizing novel RNA platform driven therapeutics. Duke University School of Medicine, established in 1930, is a leading institution ranked sixth nationally, known for its inclusive community and interdisciplinary collaboration. Duke Health encompasses the School of Medicine, School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System, including multiple hospitals and primary care facilities. Duke Surgery is a leader in NIH Grant Funding and is recognized for its faculty and trainees' research contributions.

Requirements

• PhD in Molecular Biology, RNA Biology, Biochemistry, Bioengineering, or a related field.
• Strong background in RNA biology (e.g., splicing, RNA modification, circRNA).
• Proven expertise in molecular cloning, plasmid design, and RNA analysis techniques.
• Highly motivated to drive independent research in a collaborative, interdisciplinary team setting.

Responsibilities

• Engineer novel RNA platforms for persistent expression, using in vitro and in vivo strategies.
• Investigate RNA structure, stability, and post-transcriptional regulation within cells.
• Amalgamate RNA engineering with AAV and nonviral delivery platforms.
• Perform molecular biology experiments including, but not limited to: RNA isolation, RT-qPCR, RNA-seq data analysis, molecular cloning, and reporter assays.
• Evaluate RNA platforms in advanced cell culture models and/or mouse models to drive clinical translation.
• Publish research in high-impact journals and present findings at scientific conferences.

Benefits

• health insurance plans
• generous paid time off
• retirement programs with employer contributions
• tuition assistance for employees and their children

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree