Postdoc positions

Computational biology and molecular biology postdoc positions are available in the laboratory of Wei Li at the University of Maryland – Institute for Health Computing (UM-IHC) and the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM). In the past, we have developed innovative bioinformatics algorithms to design, analyze, and visualize genome-wide CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screening data, used CRISPR screening to identify genes responsible for drug resistance and synthetic lethality, and further understand the functions of non-coding elements.

We are devoted to using cutting-edge AI/computational methods, in combination with new genome engineering and single-cell approaches, to understand how coding and non-coding elements function in cancer and childhood diseases.

We also accept graduate students and visiting scholars. Please contact the PI directly for opportunities.

Outstanding research and living community: candidates will join the outstanding research community at UM-IHC and UMSOM, and have the opportunity to interact with scientists at nearby institutions, including the National Institute of Health (NIH), Johns Hopkins University, the University of Maryland, College Park, etc.

Unique career development opportunities: The candidate will have the opportunity to establish a research laboratory and interact with the PI/collaborators. The candidate will also gain experiences and guidances in a variety of aspects including grant writing, presentation, career transition, networking, etc.

Computational biology postdocs

We will conduct research focusing on the following areas:

• Develop algorithms to analyze large-scale screening and sequencing data;
• Use the latest machine learning algorithms to study cancer genomics data and identify predictive biomarkers or drug targets;
• Collaborate with experimental and clinical labs to study a variety of biological and biomedical problems, including (1) pediatric diseases especially glioma and Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1); (2) the functions of coding and non-coding elements using genetic screening and single-cell sequencing approaches; and (3) other exciting collaboration projects.

Responsibilities of the position will include but not limited to: methodology development, coding, statistical analysis of big biomedical data, writing manuscript, application to postdoctoral fellowship and communication with other researchers.

Postdoctoral Fellow / Senior Scientist – Genomic Engineering Core Facility

University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) & University of Maryland – Institute for Neuroscience Discovery (UM-MIND)

A Postdoctoral Fellow or Senior Scientist position is available at the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) and the University of Maryland – Institute for Neuroscience Discovery (UM-MIND) to support the MIND X-CHANGE Genomic Engineering Infrastructure. This position is embedded within a campus-wide core facility that provides cutting-edge functional genomics capabilities, including CRISPR-based screening and advanced genome engineering (knock-in/knockout). The successful candidate will play a central role in enabling high-impact research across neuroscience, cancer, and rare diseases, with a particular emphasis on collaborative, service-oriented science.

The selected candidate will work in a highly collaborative core facility environment, partnering with investigators across UMSOM, UM-MIND, and the broader research community. This role emphasizes technology development, user support, experimental execution, and grant collaboration, rather than an independent research program.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Develop and maintain core technologies:
  • Establish and optimize pipelines for CRISPR-based genome editing, including pooled CRISPR screens (bulk and single-cell) and knock-in/knockout strategies
  • Implement robust workflows for single-cell genomics assays (e.g., Perturb-seq)
• Provide consultation and project design support:
  • Advise investigators on experimental design, library selection, controls, and statistical considerations
  • Guide users on feasibility, timelines, and best practices for functional genomics studies
• Support grant writing and proposal development:
  • Contribute to Methods and Approach sections for grant applications (e.g., NIH R01/U-series, multi-PI proposals)
  • Assist in experimental design, feasibility assessment, and power estimation
  • Generate preliminary data to strengthen proposals
  • Collaborate on center-level and programmatic grants leveraging core capabilities
• Execute and support collaborative projects:
  • Perform or co-develop experiments with users across diverse biological systems (primary cells, iPSCs, cell lines)
  • Ensure high-quality, reproducible data generation across multiple concurrent projects
• Develop and optimize protocols:
  • Improve efficiency and scalability of genome editing and screening workflows
  • Evaluate and implement emerging technologies in CRISPR and single-cell genomics
• Oversee core operations and quality control:
  • Establish standard operating procedures (SOPs) and quality control benchmarks
  • Maintain instrumentation and coordinate with vendors/service contracts
• Train and mentor users:
  • Provide hands-on training in CRISPR and single-cell technologies
  • Organize workshops and tutorials for the research community
• Collaborate on data analysis and dissemination:
  • Work with computational teams on CRISPR screen and single-cell data analysis
  • Contribute to publications, reports, and collaborative projects
• Contribute to strategic growth of the core:
  • Expand service offerings (e.g., spatial omics, multi-omics integration)
  • Engage in outreach to increase adoption and impact of the facility

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in molecular biology, genomics, bioengineering, or a related field
• Expertise in CRISPR-based genome editing, including:
  • CRISPR/Cas9 knockout and/or knock-in systems
  • Experience with pooled CRISPR screens and/or single-cell CRISPR technologies (preferred)
• Strong background in molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as:
  • Mammalian cell culture (primary cells or stem cells preferred)
  • Cloning, PCR, sequencing, flow cytometry, and related assays
• Experience in grant writing and proposal development:
  • Ability to contribute to Methods/Approach sections
  • Familiarity with NIH grant structure and expectations
  • Experience generating preliminary data for proposals (preferred)
• Experience in collaborative or service-oriented environments:
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously
  • Strong organizational and project management skills
• Demonstrated ability to develop and optimize experimental protocols
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills:
  • Ability to clearly explain technical concepts to diverse users
  • Proven ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Track record of productivity, including peer-reviewed publications or significant technical contributions
• Computational skills (preferred):
  • Familiarity with CRISPR screen analysis and/or single-cell RNA-seq analysis
• Experience in a core facility or shared resource environment is highly desirable but not required

Research Environment: UMSOM and UM-MIND provide a highly interactive and collaborative research environment, with strong ties to leading institutions in the region, including the National Institutes of Health, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Maryland, College Park.

The MIND X-CHANGE infrastructure aims to become a hub for genomic engineering innovation, supporting cutting-edge research and enabling translational advances in neuroscience, cancer, and genetic diseases.

Career Development Opportunities: This position offers unique opportunities to:

• Gain experience in core facility leadership and operations
• Build expertise in cutting-edge genomic engineering and single-cell technologies
• Contribute to high-impact collaborative projects and grant applications
• Develop skills in team science, technology translation, and research infrastructure development

Application Instructions: Interested candidates should submit Curriculum Vitae (CV), cover letter describing research background and interests, and contact information for three references. Email application materials to: wli2@som.umaryland.edu