Postdoctoral Research Associate - Pathology & Immunology
Washington University in St. Louis
St. Louis, MO, USA
Posted on Jul 26, 2025
Position Summary
The Feng Lab at WashU Medicine is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join our team investigating how disease-associated histone mutations impact chromatin and epigenetic regulation in developmental disorders, brain inflammation, and cancer.The Feng Lab is affiliated with the Departments of Pathology & Immunology and Genetics and is located in the vibrant and collaborative open-lab space in the Couch Biomedical Research Building. This appointment is considered a training-focused, transitional role toward an independent academic, industrial, or research career. As a junior PI, I am committed to providing personalized mentorship and supporting your career development through active guidance, networking, and publication opportunities.
Our research integrates biochemistry, genomics, molecular genetics, cell biology, and model organism systems to uncover the mechanisms by which histone mutations disrupt human development and lead to disease. Our ultimate goal is to reveal novel insights into chromatin dysregulation and identify therapeutic targets.
We are particularly interested in applicants with a strong background (or keen interest in) chromatin biology, neurodevelopment, cancer biology, or immunology. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to collaborative and multidisciplinary projects.
Job Description
Primary Duties & Responsibilities:
Information on being a postdoc at WashU in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/.
Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):
- Conducts independent and collaborative research under the supervision of Dr. Feng.
- Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
- Prepares and submits papers on research.
- Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
- Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
- Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
- Engages in open and timely discussion with Dr. Feng regarding possession or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to their laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
- Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
- Adherence to all applicable University policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in University laboratories remain the property of the University.
A few example projects include:
- Deciphering how germline histone mutations lead to neurodevelopmental disorders using in vivo models.
- Identifying and characterizing cancer-associated histone mutations that alter chromatin and cellular function.
- Investigating the crosstalk between chromatin regulation and immune signaling in response to environmental stimuli.
- Exploring the role of chromatin-associated factors that cooperate with histone variants and identify potential small-molecule modulators.
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.
Applicant Special Instructions:
To apply, please send a CV, a brief statement of research interests and career goals, and contact information for 3 references to Lijuan Feng (l.feng@wustl.edu).
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.Required Qualifications
Education:
Ph.D., M.D. Or Equivalent Terminal Or Doctoral Degree.
Certifications:
Work Experience:
Skills:
Driver's License:
More About This Job
WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.Preferred Qualifications
Education:
No additional education beyond what is stated in the Required Qualifications section.
Certifications:
Work Experience:
Skills:
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 CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 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.