Postdoctoral Fellow — CRISPR Functional Genomics, Stem Cell–Derived Islets, and Immune Engineering

The Maehr Lab at UMass Chan Medical School invites applications for an NIH-funded postdoctoral fellow position focused on functional genomics-driven engineering of stem cell–derived islets for immune tolerance.

Our laboratory combines human pluripotent stem cell differentiation, CRISPR-based (epi-)genome engineering, single-cell multi-omics, immunology, and computational biology to identify mechanisms that protect stem cell–derived islets from autoimmune and allogeneic immune responses while preserving beta-cell identity and function.

Position Overview

The successful candidate will lead efforts using CRISPR genome engineering and functional genomics screens to identify regulatory programs and its underlying factors that improve the survival, function, and immune compatibility of stem cell–derived islets. The fellow will work closely with experimental and computational scientists to connect regulatory regions of the genome through genetic perturbations and engineering with cellular phenotypes, molecular mechanisms, and immune outcomes.

The position offers substantial scientific independence and access to institutional expertise in stem cell differentiation, genome engineering, single-cell genomics, immunology, and bioinformatics. It is well suited for a scientist interested in developing translational strategies for improving stem cell–based therapies for Type 1 diabetes and novel immune tolerance approaches in cell replacement therapy.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and perform functional genomics screens in human stem cell–derived pancreatic cells to characterize regulatory network and functional genome connectivity.
• Develop and implement genome engineering, differentiation, and immune-challenge assays.
• Engineer regulatory networks that protect cells from inflammatory stress, autoimmune recognition, or allogeneic immune attack.
• Generate and analyze single-cell transcriptomic, epigenomic, and multi-omic datasets.
• Prioritize and validate candidate elements and pathways using targeted genetic and molecular approaches.
• Collaborate with computational scientists to define perturbation-dependent regulatory and immune-response networks.
• Communicate findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and grant applications.
• Mentor junior researchers and contribute to a collaborative laboratory environment.
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Preferred Qualifications

Applicants should have a PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in stem cell biology, molecular biology, immunology, bioengineering, computational biology, or a related field.

Experience in one or more of the following areas is preferred:

• Human pluripotent stem cell culture and directed differentiation.
• Pancreatic beta-cell or islet biology.
• CRISPR, functional genomics, or genome engineering.
• Next Generation Sequencing approaches, such as ATACseq, ChiPseq, RNAseq, single cell-omics.
• Single-cell genomics, Perturb-seq, or multi-omic analysis.
• In vitro immune interaction, or transplantation assays.

Prior experience in every area is not required. Applicants with strong experimental expertise and an interest in developing complementary skills are encouraged to apply.

Research Environment

The Maehr Lab part of the Program in Molecular Medicine and is located within the Diabetes Center of Excellence at UMass Chan Medical School. The lab is part of a highly collaborative environment spanning stem cell biology, immunology, functional genomics, transplantation biology, and regenerative medicine.

Application Materials

Applicants should submit:

• A curriculum vitae.
• A brief cover letter describing research experience, scientific interests, and career goals.
• Contact information for three references.
• One or two representative publications.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. The start date is flexible.

Posting Disclaimer:
This job posting outlines the primary responsibilities and qualifications for the role but is not intended to be an exhaustive list. Duties and expectations may evolve in response to the needs of the department and the broader institution.

In alignment with our commitment to pay transparency, the base salary range for this position is listed above (exclusive of benefits and retirement). At UMass Chan Medical School, final base salary offers are determined based on a combination of factors, including your skills, education, and relevant experience. We also consider internal equity to ensure fair and consistent compensation across our teams.

Please note that the range provided reflects the full base salary range for this position. Offers are typically made within the midrange to allow for future growth and development within the role.

In addition to base pay, UMass Chan offers a comprehensive Total Rewards package, which includes paid time off, medical, dental, and vision coverage, and participation in a 401(a)-retirement plan, with the option to contribute to a voluntary 403(b) plan.

UMass Chan welcomes all qualified applicants and complies with all state and federal anti-discrimination laws.