Postdoctoral Research Associate in Evolutionary Cell Biology

Job no: 503909
Work type: Exempt Staff Full-time
Location: Bethlehem
Categories: Postdoc

The incoming postdoctoral researcher will join the Dudka Lab to lead experimental projects on the evolutionary mechanisms of chromosome segregation in mammals, using mouse oocytes, preimplantation embryos, hybrid mouse models, and/or tissue culture cells.

Position Number: RC2910

Anticipated Salary: $65,000 - Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.

Key Responsibilities:

Conduct independent and collaborative research on chromosome segregation, centromere biology, and the consequences of rapid evolution for genome stability and female reproduction.
Design, execute, and analyze experiments using mouse oocytes/embryos (including microinjection), and mouse/human cell lines, CRISPR-based gene editing, immunofluorescence, and confocal imaging.
Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present results at conferences. Assist in the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, providing guidance on experimental techniques, data analysis, and project development.
Assist in the mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students, providing guidance on experimental techniques, data analysis, and project development.
Contribute to grant writing, including assisting with proposal development and identifying funding opportunities.
Participate in departmental seminars, workshops, and other events to engage with the academic community.

Qualifications:

Doctoral degree (or near completion) in cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, or evolutionary biology, or a closely related field, completed by the start of the appointment.
Strong background in cell biology, with experience in one or more of: molecular biology, CRISPR-based gene editing, confocal microscopy, mouse genetics, or mouse oocyte/embryo manipulation.
Demonstrated research experience and at least one first-author publication in a reputable peer-reviewed journal (or a preprint).
Strong writing, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills are required.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive research and teaching environment.
Proven ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative research team.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience with mouse oocyte/embryo microinjection, mammalian cell culture, and confocal imaging.
Experience with CRISPR-based gene editing in mouse/human cells.
Familiarity with computational molecular evolution analyses.
Quantitative image analysis skills (e.g., Fiji/ImageJ, Python, R).

Terms of Appointment:
This position is a full-time, one-year position with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits.

Compensation will be competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, including benefits. Please visit the Postdoctoral Affairs Office website for the compensation policy at Lehigh University.

Application Process:
Applicants should submit:

A cover letter addressing your interest in the position, how your expertise meets the advertised position directions, and one or more project ideas you would hope to lead.

A curriculum vitae (CV).

Contact information for two - three references.

One representative publication. Candidate materials will be reviewed until the position is filled.

Lehigh University offers a vibrant and inclusive work environment that fosters professional growth, personal development, and a strong sense of community. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we value the unique perspectives and experiences of our employees. Competitive benefits, including comprehensive healthcare plans, tuition remission, and retirement savings opportunities, ensure your well-being and long-term success. Lehigh University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate. We are committed to a culturally and intellectually diverse community and we seek qualified candidates to contribute to the university’s mission.

Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing an accommodation for any part of the interview or hiring process may contact Lehigh's Accommodations Specialist.
• The duties of the position do not allow for a remote work option; the employee in this position will be required to work on campus where they can be fully accessible to the Lehigh community
• This position works with minors

Successful completion of standard background checks including but not limited to: social security verification, education verification, national criminal background checks, motor vehicle checks, PATCH, FBI fingerprinting, Child Abuse Clearance and credit history based upon the requirements of the position.

Only complete applications will be considered therefore please complete the application in its entirety. Once the posting is removed from the website applications may no longer be allowed to be completed.

Advertised: June 09, 2026 Eastern Daylight Time
Applications close: Open until filled