RESEARCH FELLOW

University of Michigan

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Posted on Jun 27, 2025
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How to Apply

Please submit the following materials in a single PDF to [email protected].

  • Cover Letter: Summarize your research experience, career goals, and expertise relevant to circadian biology, sleep, or related fields.
  • Curriculum Vitae: Include a list of publications with brief (1 paragraph) descriptions of your contributions to each published work.
  • References: Provide names and contact information for at least three professional references.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

In addition to emailing Dr. Yadlapalli, interested candidates should also submit the required application documents in a PDF and apply directly to this job posting.

Job Summary

The Yadlapalli Lab at the University of Michigan's Department of Cell and Developmental Biology is seeking a highly motivated and passionate Postdoctoral Fellow to join our research team. We are a group of scientists dedicated to addressing fundamental questions in circadian biology and sleep, using Drosophila melanogaster and mammalian cells as our model systems. Our lab has pioneered innovative cell biological approaches, enabling unprecedented visualization of individual clock mRNAs, genes, and proteins with subcellular resolution in intact fly brains. Recent research from our lab has provided the first insights into the spatiotemporal organization of clock components in clock neurons in vivo, uncovering novel cellular mechanisms. We employ state-of-the-art techniques in fly neurogenetics, proteomics, molecular biology, RNA biology, multi-omics, and quantitative imaging to investigate circadian mechanisms at molecular and cellular levels. Postdoctoral fellows will join a supportive, inclusive environment and contribute to exciting research while developing their own independent research programs.

What We Offer

  • A vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research environment fostering creativity and collaboration at the University of Michigan, ranked among the top public research institutions in the U.S.
  • Comprehensive training in fly neurogenetics, molecular biology, RNA biology, proteomics, multi-omics, and quantitative imaging.
  • Tailored mentorship to support your scientific and professional development, including guidance on fellowship applications, job searches, and interviews.
  • Opportunities to mentor junior lab members and collaborate with the broader scientific community.
  • Access to state-of-the-art core facilities at the University of Michigan, including advanced imaging, genomics, and proteomics cores.
  • Support to present your research at national and international conferences and build a professional network.
  • A competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including health, and dental programs.

Research Focus

The Yadlapalli Lab is excited to explore the following key research areas:

  • Clock Protein Condensates: Defining the role of protein condensates in circadian rhythm regulation (Xiao et al., PNAS 2021, Yuan et al., Curr. Opin, Cell Biol. 2022, Yuan et al., PNAS 2024).
  • Clock mRNA Processing and Localization: Exploring the spatiotemporal organization of clock mRNAs and their localization to specific ribonucleoprotein (RNP) bodies, including
  • underlying regulatory mechanisms (Yuan et al, Front. Physiol. 2022, Yuan et al., In Review, Xiao et al., In Review).
  • Chromatin Accessibility: Investigating the dynamics of chromatin accessibility in clock-controlled genes (Yuan et al., PLOS Genetics, 2024, Chen et al., In Review).
  • Sleep Regulation: Investigate the molecular and cellular basis of sleep regulation.

Postdoctoral fellows will lead independent projects within these areas, leveraging their expertise to advance ongoing research and develop innovative research programs that lay the foundation for their future independent laboratories.

Learn More About Us

Why Work at Michigan?

The Yadlapalli Lab offers a unique opportunity to conduct research at the intersection of circadian biology, cell biology, and RNA biology, and contribute to transformative discoveries in circadian rhythms and sleep. As a postdoctoral fellow, you will work in a supportive and dynamic environment, receive personalized mentorship, and gain the skills and experience needed to launch a successful independent career. The University of Michigan provides a rich academic community, world-class resources, and a vibrant campus life in Ann Arbor, a city known for its cultural and intellectual energy. We look forward to welcoming a passionate scientist to our team! For inquiries, please contact Dr. Swathi Yadlapalli at [email protected].

Responsibilities*

  • Design and execute independent research projects aligned with your interests and the lab's research goals.
  • Publish findings in high-impact journals and present research at scientific meetings.
  • Apply for postdoctoral fellowships and grants to support your research.
  • Mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Actively participate in lab and departmental activities, including journal clubs, seminars, and collaborative initiatives.

Required Qualifications*

  • Ph.D. in a relevant field such as neurobiology, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, or biochemistry.
  • Strong interest in circadian biology, sleep, or related fields, with a desire to tackle challenging scientific questions.
  • Experience with Drosophila genetics, imaging, RNA biology, biochemistry, or omics approaches is preferred but not required.
  • A resilient, curious, and collaborative approach to research.
  • Dedication to research integrity and scientific excellence.

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.