Description
The Derderian Lab in the Department of Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Fellow to join our team at the forefront of fetal therapy research. Our lab tackles two transformative areas of investigation: (1) understanding placental biology and epigenetic regulation of trophoblast invasion, with a focus on extracellular vesicle–mediated microRNA signaling in fetal growth restriction, and (2) pioneering in utero gene editing approaches to correct genetic disease before birth. Current projects include the development of CRISPR-Cas9–based base editing platforms delivered by AAV vectors and lipid nanoparticles to treat Ornithine Transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency in utero.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design and conduct independent research projects in placental biology or in utero gene editing
- Develop and optimize CRISPR-Cas9 base editing strategies, including plasmid and sgRNA design.
- Perform molecular and cellular assays to investigate gene regulation, extracellular vesicle signaling, and therapeutic efficacy.
- Analyze and interpret data, prepare manuscripts for publication, and contribute to grant applications.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, geneticists, and molecular biologists.
- Mentor graduate students, residents, and junior trainees in the lab.
- Present research findings at departmental seminars and national/international conferences.
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications: Applicants must meet minimum qualifications at the time of hire.
- PhD in molecular biology, genetics, developmental biology, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
- Strong record of research productivity demonstrated by publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Prior postdoctoral training experience (1–4 years preferred).
- Expertise in CRISPR-Cas9 technology, including plasmid design and single guide RNA development.
- Background in placental biology, extracellular vesicle biology, or epigenetic regulation.
- Experience with viral vector or lipid nanoparticle development and delivery.
- Strong data analysis, communication, and scientific writing skills.
