Post Doctoral.Post Doctoral.Associate at University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Overall Summary
The University of Pittsburgh is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate to join the laboratory of Dr. Silmara de Lima in the Department of Ophthalmology. The Postdoctoral Associate will lead projects to develop in vitro models to study genetic disorders affecting retinal ganglion cells. These studies will utilize human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and their differentiation into specialized retinal cell types.

The ideal Candidate will have strong hands-on experience with 3D organoid cultures, particularly retinal organoids. Experience with high-content imaging, flow cytometry, and genome editing (CRISPR/Cas9) is highly preferred. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of human retinal development and retinal degenerative diseases, such as glaucoma. A proven record of scientific publication and the ability to present findings at internal and external meetings are expected.

Duties and responsibilities include optimizing protocols for generating both 2D cultures and 3D retinal organoids, characterizing cellular phenotypes, and investigating mechanisms that affect retinal ganglion cells during development. The successful Candidate will integrate stem cell biology with ocular, developmental, and molecular biology approaches.

Expectations / Qualifications
Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Neuroscience, Ophthalmology, or a related field. The Candidate should demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot complex, long-term differentiation protocols and be a proactive team player comfortable working in a fast-paced research environment. Preferred candidates will have 2–4+ years of postdoctoral or industry experience in human iPSC culture and differentiation.

Opportunities Available
Travel support is available for national conferences, as well as participation in career development workshops -OACD workshops.