Postdoctoral Training Program in the Ethical, Legal, and Social Implications of Genetics and Genomics (Summer 2027)

University of Pennsylvania•Philadelphia, PA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The 3-year Penn Postdoctoral Training Program in the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) of Genetics and Genomics, supported by a training grant from the National Human Genome Research Institute, aims to prepare junior scholars for success as creative, independent investigators in ELSI research. Fellows will be fully integrated into the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy, a leading global bioethics department, and will interact with Penn's extensive genetic medicine, science, and ELSI communities. The program offers a generous annual stipend, benefits, and funding for academic books and travel. Depending on prior training and career aspirations, ELSI fellows may have the opportunity to pursue a Master of Science in Medical Ethics to enhance their competitiveness for external ELSI research funding. The fellowship is directed by Steven Joffe, MD, MPH. Applicants must hold a doctoral degree (MD, PhD, or equivalent) or expect to receive one by the summer of the fellowship's start year. Doctoral degrees can be in any relevant field, including life sciences, philosophy, political science, psychology, sociology, economics, or anthropology. Prior bioethics experience is not a prerequisite. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Requirements

Doctoral degree (MD, PhD, or equivalent) in hand or expected by the summer of the fellowship year.
Doctorate may be in any relevant field, including life sciences, philosophy, political science, psychology, sociology, economics, or anthropology.
Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in bioethics is not required.

Responsibilities

Participate fully in the life of the Department of Medical Ethics and Health Policy.
Engage with the genetic medicine, science, and ELSI communities at Penn.
Pursue a Master of Science in Medical Ethics when appropriate to prior training and career goals.