Post Doctoral Fellow - Department of Ophthalmology

The Department of Ophthalmology at West Virginia University Research Corporation is currently accepting applications for a Post Doctoral Fellow.

About the Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated and creative Postdoctoral Fellow to lead cutting-edge research in extracellular matrix (ECM). This position is intended for someone who aims to build a strong scientific career in ECM biology, with a focus on leveraging advanced imaging modalities and experimental approaches to elucidate the structure, function, and therapeutic potential of the neuronal ECM-particularly in the retina.

Under the mentorship of Dr. Ezequiel Salido, Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, as well as the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, you will play a key leadership role in the conception, execution, and dissemination of pioneering studies related to ECM biology. Our lab uses CRISPR-Cas9 animal models, advanced imaging (including confocal and super-resolution microscopy), electrophysiology (ERG), gene therapy approaches, and multi-omics to deepen our understanding of how ECM dysregulation contributes to vision disorders. For more details about Salido Lab research, please visit our lab webpage (https://salidolab.com/).

At WVU Research Corporation, we strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU Research Corporation offers a comprehensive benefits package with a variety of options to suit your needs:

• 13 paid holidayshttps://hr.research.wvu.edu/wvurc-benefits/paid-time-off (staff holiday calendar)
• Paid Time off (PTO)
• 403(b) retirement savings with a fully vested 3% employee contribution match, (Employees have the option of contributing an additional 1-3% of their earnings to the plan, which is also matched by the WVURC)
• A range of health insurance and other benefits
• Dependent Education Scholarship
• WVU Perks

What You'll Do

• Lead experimental studies centered on ECM imaging (confocal, super-resolution, multiphoton,TEM) and manipulation (CRISPR-Cas9 editing, gene therapy approaches, cell culture).
• Establish and optimize advanced molecular, biochemical, and imaging protocols to visualize and perturb ECM components in the retina.
• Develop hypothesis-based research objectives, with a focus on translational potential for treating retinal or other vision-related disorders.
• Employ quantitative imaging pipelines, bioinformatics tools, and statistical methods to analyze high-resolution data.
• Draft, revise, and publish peer-reviewed manuscripts; present findings at national/international conferences (e.g., ARVO).
• Collaborate with the Principal Investigator on grant proposals and progress reports to maintain and expand funding.
• Provide day-to-day guidance and training to graduate students, research technicians, and undergraduates in ECM-related projects.
• Foster a collaborative environment by sharing expertise, troubleshooting experiments, and contributing to lab meetings and journal clubs.
• Contribute to a supportive lab culture, encouraging open discussion and celebrating diverse perspectives.

• Doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field (e.g., Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, or related disciplines).
• Strong publication record and evidence of independent research capabilities (e.g., first-author papers).
• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

The successful candidate may be permitted to begin employment prior to degree confirmation with a letter certifying the trainee has completed all the requirements from their university.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated proficiency in advanced imaging techniques (confocal, super-resolution, or related methods).
• Familiarity with molecular biology and gene editing (CRISPR-Cas9, AAV vectors, etc.) for studying and manipulating ECM components.
• Experience with small-animal handling (mice), including colony management, genotyping, or experimental interventions.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a commitment to mentoring and scientific collaboration.

Please include with submission:

• Cover Letter: Please outline your background, research interests, and career aspirations, especially relating to ECM studies.
• CV: Include publications, technical skills, and relevant achievements.
• References: Provide contact information for three references (at least one from your doctoral or previous postdoctoral advisor).

The WVURC was created as a not-for-profit corporation in 1985 to support research (R1) at West Virginia University. We provide evaluation, development, patenting, management, and marketing services for inventions of the faculty, staff and students of the University.

The WVURC receives and administers funds awarded by external agencies for research and other activities and is responsible for helping protect intellectual property through patents, copyrights and licensing agreements for start-up companies based on University research.

West Virginia University Research Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.