POSTDOCTORAL SCHOLAR

A postdoctoral position is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Wenjie Yu in the Lung Biology and Cystic Fibrosis Research Center of the University of Iowa.

The Lung Biology and Cystic Fibrosis Research Center is a world-leading group for pulmonary research. Under the direction of Dr. Michael Welsh, the center has pioneered the use of porcine models to study cystic fibrosis and other chronic airway diseases. Fully integrated within this environment, and benefiting from joint lab meetings with the Welsh group, the Yu lab investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms of airway remodeling in chronic muco-obstructive lung diseases (including CF, PCD, and COPD). Yu lab utilizes human donor lungs, pig and mouse models, organoid culture, and single-cell and spatial transcriptomics to understand how inflammation and disease progression remodel the airway, as well as the physiological consequences of the remodeling.

This position is fully supported by a newly awarded, 5-year NIH R01 grant focusing on airway submucosal glands, a critical but significantly understudied component of airway host defense and mucus plugging. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoc with prior experience in histology and immunohistochemistry, cell and molecular biology, and animal models. The candidate will lead a well-developed project investigating the mechanisms of submucosal gland remodeling and mucus hypersecretion. This position also offers the opportunity to develop independent research projects in lung biology and chronic airway disease.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and perform experiments focusing on airway submucosal glands.
• Perform techniques including histology, immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, organoid/tissue explant cultures, and live imaging.
• Analyze complex data, including bulk, single-cell, and spatial transcriptomics datasets.
• Present research findings at internal meetings and international conferences, and prepare manuscripts for publications.
• Collaborate closely with center faculty, core facilities, and other research teams.

PhD in biology, biomedicine, or a related life science field.

A strong intrinsic drive with a career goal in academic research.

Experience with key experiments including histology, immunohistochemistry, cell/tissue culture, and in vivo mouse or pig studies (experience with respiratory mouse or pig models is a significant plus).

A demonstrated record of scientific productivity, evidenced by first-author research articles or manuscript drafts.

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