The Gao Lab in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist. The successful candidate must hold a PhD or MD/PhD degree and will lead projects focused on ocular genetic disorders.

Qualification of candidate: Applicants must hold a PhD or MD/PhD in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related biomedical field. With 5 years of experience required, Ophthalmology experience preferred.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to mentor students, independently lead research projects, and contribute to manuscript and grant preparation.

Conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates project development in collaboration with other specialists.

The candidate will develop precision gene-editing strategies to correct pathogenic variants and establish high-throughput approaches to investigate the functional impact of genetic variants and candidate genes contributing to inherited diseases in the models of mammalian cells and rodents. The candidate will also assist the Principal Investigator with grant writing and student mentorship.

The candidate should be able to perform experiments in tissue culture room and animal facility.