Research focus and environment:

One postdoctoral scholar position is immediately available in the Ling lab in the Department of Genetic and Cellular Medicine (GCM), Horae Gene Therapy Center at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School (UMass Chan). The GCM, consisting of investigators from different background and research expertise, provides a highly dynamic and collaborative environment, with a common goal of developing gene and cell therapies for diseases with no other treatments. 

The Ling lab was established at GCM in 2024, focusing on developing innovative gene therapies for neurological and mitochondrial diseases. Our active research projects include:

• Gene editing in mitochondrial DNA: we use base editing technologies to create mouse models for gene mutations in the mitochondrial DNA, and develop gene therapies targeting the most frequent pathogenic variants.
• Gene therapy for vestibular schwannoma: we engineer novel gene therapies to slow vestibular schwannoma growth and prevent hearing loss. We leverage multi-omics patient data and develop patient-derived 3D tumoroid models to accelerate the development of an effective and safe gene therapy for the patients.

The lab is currently supported by NIH, NF Northeast Foundation, and UMass Chan startup fund. For more details, please visit: https://www.umassmed.edu/qlinglab/

Responsibilities:

• Design and execute experiments
• Analyze and interpret data
• Collaborate with team members, graduate students, and external partners to execute projects
• Engage in project and journal discussions
• Prepare manuscripts, present findings at conferences, and contribute to grant writing
• Stay current with advances in mitochondrial biology and gene therapy technologies
• Assist in lab operation, and maintain organized and detailed lab records

Qualifications:

• PhD in molecular biology, genetics, immunology, neuroscience or related biological/biomedical science.
• Highly motivated to apply skills towards develop gene therapies.
• Being able to conduct experiments in both in vitro and in vivo models
• Skills in bioinformatics or omics analysis are highly desirable
• Strong attention to detail
• Excellent experimental and analytical skills, and careful research-record keeping.
• Strong written and verbal communication/presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Career development:

The Ling lab values collaboration and personal growth. We work with you to tailor your training to meet your career goal, either being academia or industry, while you contribute to the growth of the lab. The goal of the Ling lab is to use our knowledge and passion 1) to help young scientists build scientific skills; 2) to find the hope for families with genetic diseases.

As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, prospectives, and backgrounds.

Life in Worcester:

Worcester locates in central Massachusetts. It is an affordable, and vibrant city, offering a variety of restaurants featuring different cuisines, as well as a rich array of art, music, and outdoor activities. The city is one hour driving distance to both Boston and Providence, RI.

To apply:

Please submit a cover letter and CV listing three references by email to Qinglan Ling at qinglan.ling@umassmed.edu