Harvard University

Position

Details

TitleHMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell BiologySchoolHarvard Medical SchoolDepartment/Area***Position Description

We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Brugge lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. The Brugge lab has identified populations of breast epithelial cells that carry chromosome copy number alterations (CNAs) that are among the most common CNAs found in breast cancer (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39567747/). Several lines of evidence suggest that these CNAs increase cell fitness and that cells carrying these CNAs represent the cells-of-origin of breast cancer. The lab is currently using organoids and cell models, as well as genetic screens to examine the cellular programs regulated by these CNAs, how they contribute to cell fitness and tumor initiation.

We welcome applications from recent PhD graduates who have published their thesis research and who are interested in this research area, particularly those who may have prior experience with organoid culture, analysis of aneuploidy, computational skills in analysis of scRNAseq and scATACseq datasets, and/or CRISPR genetic screens. The successful candidate will work with single cell datasets, primary breast tissue, organoid and cell line models to develop an independent research project within the scope of the lab’s research focus. In addition to carrying out bench research, the successful candidate will be expected to apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members as needed, and otherwise contribute to overall lab operations and collaborative environment. |

Salary and Benefits

This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

With this appointment, you are represented by the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) – UAW for purposes of collective bargaining and matters affecting your compensation and working conditions.

Basic Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biology/biological sciences or related fields

• Strong evidence of original contributions to research via peer-reviewed publication record

• Experience with bioinformatic analysis of single cell RNAseq and/or ATACseq datasets

• Experience with organoid culture

• Experience with genetic screens

Additional QualificationsSpecial Instructions

Required documents:

• Curriculum Vitae

• Statement of Research for PhD work

• Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.

• Note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference.

Please submit application documents through the ARIeS portal. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis. Selected candidates will be invited for in-person interviews involving a research presentation on past work.

Expected Dates

• Application deadline: April 17, 2026

• Start date: The position is expected to start on or around May 4, 2026 with some flexibility.

• Duration: This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Contact Information

Joan Brugge and Angie Gakidis
HMS – Dept. of Cell Biology
240 Longwood Ave.
Boston, MA 02115

Contact Emailjoan_brugge@hms.harvard.edu, maria_martinezgakidis@hms.harvard.eduSalary Range

Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at https://postdoc.hms.harvard.edu/guidelines.

Minimum Number of References Required3Maximum Number of References AllowedKeywords

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy. Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Applicant Documents

Required Documents

1. Curriculum Vitae

2. Cover Letter

3. Statement of Research

4. Note

Optional Documents

1. Publication