Postdoctoral Research Associate - Ophthalmology

Position Summary The Wang lab in the Department of Visual Sciences is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team. Our research focuses on discovering the mechanisms that govern ocular tissue development and homeostasis, with the goal of applying this fundamental knowledge to translational research in ocular disease diagnosis, prevention, and treatment. We use a diverse range of techniques including mouse genetics, cell and molecular biology, computational bioinformatics, and bioengineering. Through established clinical collaborations, we also have unique opportunities to conduct clinical research with human eye specimens. Our Work Spans Three Major Directions Basic Research: we investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ocular tissue development and homeostasis, including the lens, retina, and tear gland. Clinical Research: we analyze human post‑mortem eye tissue and patient samples to directly inform our research discoveries. Translational Research: we develop therapeutic strategies to prevent and treat ocular surface diseases, such as dry eye disease. For this specific position, we are recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to lead a project focused on tear gland development and management of dry eye disease. Job Description Primary Duties & Responsibilities Train under the supervision of a faculty mentor, including (but not limited to): Assist with grant preparation and reporting. Prepare and submit papers on research. Assist in the design of research experiments. Evaluate research findings and assist in the reporting of the results. Conscientiously discharge research responsibilities. Maintain conformity with ethical standards in research. Maintain compliance with good laboratory practice and adequate research records. Engage in open and timely discussion with mentor regarding possession or distribution of materials, reagents, or records belonging to the laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques. Exhibit collegial conduct toward co‑trainees, staff members, and members of the research group. Adhere to all applicable university policies, procedures, and regulations. All data, research records, materials, and other intellectual property generated in university laboratories remain the property of the university. Working Conditions This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals. Salary Range Base pay is commensurate with experience. Education Required Qualifications Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree. Certifications / Professional Licenses No specific certification or professional license is required for this position. Work Experience No specific work experience is required for this position. Skills Not applicable. Driver's License A driver's license is not required for this position. More About This Job At WashU, postdoctoral appointments have a 5‑year term limit that includes previous experience. Preferred Qualifications No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Certifications / Professional Licenses No additional certification or professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Work Experience No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting. Skills Collaboration, data analysis, data interpretation, experimentation, laboratory operations, laboratory techniques, researching, results reporting, scientific writing. Questions For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ. Accommodation If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email View email address on click.appcast.io or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at View phone number on click.appcast.io and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship. Pre‑Employment Screening All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre‑employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening. Benefits Statement Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full‑time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at to view a summary of benefits. EEO Statement Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship (where prohibited by federal law), age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information. #J-18808-Ljbffr Washington University in St. Louis