Postdoctoral Fellow - Gene Therapy/Neurology/Neuromuscular/Genetics

Overview

The Rashnonejad Lab, funded by a new NIH R01 grant in August of 2026, is seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented postdoc to join our team focused on developing AAV gene therapies for neuromuscular/neurological disorders. The successful candidate will be able to work independently on multiple projects in a dynamic, highly productive environment.

Primary responsibilities include designing experiments, conducting both in vivo and in vitro research, and collaborating with other team members. Applicants should hold a PhD in a relevant field and possess research experience, particularly in AAV, gene therapy, neuromuscular science, and iPSC-derived 3D organoid models.

Job Description Summary

Conducts research, designs experiments, analyzes data, and presents findings under the mentorship of an established RI principal investigator or Senior Research Scientists. Appointment is a maximum of 7 years in length.

Essential Functions

• Designs experiments, develops protocols, and conducts research under the guidance of a faculty mentor.
• Assists in the training and supervision of technical support staff in performing specific techniques essential to carrying out the research program.
• Records and analyzes data generated by the research study. Assists in the development of hypotheses for further investigation from the results of the studies performed.
• Assists with the preparation of scientific and technical papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals. Presents findings at local and national research forums.
• Collaborates with other ongoing research efforts either at NCH or at The Ohio State University.
• Works toward research independence, preparing to submit proposals to and obtain funding from external granting agencies.

Education Requirement

PhD or equivalent degree in relevant field of science, required.

Licensure Requirement

• (not specified)
• Certifications: (not specified)

Skills

• Effective interpersonal skills required in interactions with scientists, physicians, and laboratory colleagues.
• Excellent laboratory technical skills.
• Excellent computer skills.
• Skills in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Ability to proactively manage and drive projects.

Experience: Research experience from PhD program, required.

Physical Requirements

• OCCASIONALLY: Bend/twist, Climb stairs/ladder, Lifting / Carrying: 11-20 lbs
• FREQUENTLY: Lifting / Carrying: 0-10 lbs, Standing, Walking

Continuously

Audible speech, Color vision, Computer skills, Decision Making, Depth perception, Flexing/extending of neck, Hand use: grasping, gripping, turning, Hearing acuity, Interpreting Data, Peripheral vision, Problem solving, Reaching above shoulder, Repetitive hand/arm use, Seeing – Far/near, Sitting, Squat/kneel

Additional Physical Requirements performed but not listed above

• Pressure in this position will vary depending on the workload.
• The workload will be heavy but manageable most of the time.
• Pressure may arise in the face of deadlines associated research and manuscript writing.

"The above list of duties is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this classification. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive list of duties performed by the individuals so classified, nor is it intended to limit or modify the right of any supervisor to assign, direct, and control the work of employees under their supervision. EOE M/F/Disability/Vet"