The University of Pittsburgh, Ophthalmology Department is searching for a Post Doctoral Associate for a co-mentored position in the laboratories of Dr. Clayton Santiago and Dr. John Ash. The position focuses on the mechanistic study of retinal disease, with an emphasis on identifying pathways that mediate neuroprotection. This work integrates histological analysis, in vivo imaging, gene therapy approaches, and single-cell/single-nucleus sequencing to define disease mechanisms and neuroprotective signaling in the retina, with an eye toward therapeutic translation.

• Design and execute experiments investigating mechanisms of retinal disease progression and neuroprotection

• Perform histological and immunohistochemical analysis of retinal tissue across animal models of disease

• Conduct in vivo retinal imaging (e.g., OCT, fundus imaging, fluorescence-based imaging) to assess disease progression and treatment response

• Design, produce, and/or administer AAV-based gene therapy constructs for mechanistic studies and therapeutic testing

• Perform and analyze single-cell/single-nucleus sequencing experiments (RNA-seq, single cell RNA-seq/multiome, etc.) in relevant disease models

• Investigate signaling pathways implicated in disease progression and neuroprotective responses

• Maintain and manage animal models of retinal disease, including relevant surgical or injection procedures

• Write manuscripts and prepare data for presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications

• Maintain accurate records of experiments and contribute to lab meetings and journal clubs across both co-mentoring labs

• Mentor junior lab members (graduate students, technicians) as appropriate

Expectations or Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field

• Experience with histological techniques (immunohistochemistry, tissue processing, microscopy) and/or in vivo imaging methods

• Experience with animal models (rodent handling, intraocular injections, or related surgical procedures) preferred

• Background in gene therapy, AAV vector biology, or related molecular techniques a plus

• Background in neurodegeneration or retinal biology a plus

• Ability to write and publish articles in peer-reviewed journals

• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively

Opportunities Available

• Travel funding available for 1 national conference/seminar per year to present research findings

• Access to OACD (Office of Academic Career Development) workshops and mentoring resources

• Co-mentorship structure providing broad training across disease mechanism, in vivo models, gene therapy, and genomics

• Collaborative opportunities with investigators across Pitt Ophthalmology and affiliated institutions

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.