Postdoctoral Scholar in Visual System Neurobiology & Multi-Omics
Position overview
Position title: Postdoctoral Scholar in Bioinformatics of Neurodevelopment and Neurodegenerationappointment. See Table 23. The salary range for this position is $69,073 – $82,836.
Application Window
Open date: September 15, 2026
Next review date: Thursday, Oct 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Tuesday, Dec 15, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time)
Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.
Position description
A fully funded Postdoctoral Scholar position supported by recent NIH awards is available in the The Peng Lab (Department of Ophthalmology, UCLA). Our laboratory combines single-cell multiomics (scRNA-seq, scATAC-seq, spatial transcriptomics), cell-surface proteomics, viral vector
engineering, and computational modeling to decode the development, circuit organization, and degeneration of the visual system. We are seeking a highly motivated scientist trained in neuroscience with expertise in molecular biology and bioinformatics to lead high-impact research projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead independent and collaborative research projects employing multi-omic profiling, functional genomics, and viral targeting strategies.
- Perform standard molecular and cellular neurobiology assays (e.g., construct design/cloning, cell/neuronal culture, immunohistochemistry, Western blotting).
- Execute bioinformatic and statistical analyses on high-throughput single-cell and spatial transcriptomic datasets.
- Prepare high-quality manuscripts, assist with grant reporting, and present findings at national and international conferences.
To Apply: Interested applicants should submit a CV, a brief cover letter outlining research accomplishments and career goals, and contact information for three references to yirongpeng@mednet.ucla.edu
Qualifications
- Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, Systems Biology, Computational Biology, or a related field.
- Strong expertise in molecular biology techniques and hands-on experience with computational/bioinformatic workflows for single-cell or high-dimensional datasets.
- Demonstrated record of scientific productivity, self-motivation, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience with viral vector engineering (AAV), CRISPR gene-editing, spatial transcriptomics, electrophysiology, or calcium imaging is a plus.
Application Requirements
Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
Cover Letter/Statement of Research
- 3-5 required (contact information only)
We will only contact references with your permission.
Help contact: aidansmith@mednet.ucla.edu
About UCLA
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
- “Misconduct” means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant’s previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment, discrimination, dishonesty, or unethical conduct, as defined by the employer.
- UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
- UC Anti-Discrimination Policy for Employees, Students and Third Parties
- APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment