Postdoc Research Associate

A postdoctoral research position in epigenetics and single-cell multiomics is available at the USC Center for Genetic Epidemiology. The postdoctoral fellow will work directly with Dr. Chang (April) Shu on the statistical analysis of epigenetics and single-cell multiomics data from epidemiological and clinical studies.

The Shu Lab (aprilshulab.com) aims to understand the genetic and epigenetic etiology of mental and behavioral disorders through machine learning and statistical approaches. The candidate will analyze DNA methylation and single-cell multiomics data to identify differentially methylated, accessible or expressed regions and develop predictive biomarkers for maternal psychosocial exposures and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children. Candidate will have access to the Maternal and Developmental Risks from Environmental and Social Stressors (MADRES) study and clinical studies in the Children's Hospital Los Angeles.

The position duration is a minimum of two years, renewed annually, and is extendable upon performance. We offer a competitive salary starting above the NIH postdoc baseline(≥ $70,000) and are open to flexible start dates, but preference will be given to candidates who can begin immediately. Outstanding candidates will have the opportunity to advance to staff scientist or faculty position in the Center for Genetic Epidemiology at USC. Visa sponsorship is available and international applicants are welcomed.

Candidates should have a Ph.D. (or equivalent qualification) in genetics, epidemiology, biostatistics, computer science, bioinformatics, computational biology, or a related field. Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g. R, python, etc.) is required and proficiency in a Unix-based computing environment is preferred. Experience in analyzing epigenetics or single-cell datasets is a plus.

In addition to applying through Workday (internal applicants) or the USC Careers site (external applicants), interested candidates should send a CV, a statement of interest, and contact information for two or three references to Dr. Shu at april.shu@usc.edu. Applicants are also encouraged to reach out for any inquiries.

The annual base salary range for this position is $70,000-$72,000. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Minimum Education: Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate within previous five years Minimum Experience: 0-1 year Minimum Field of Expertise: Directly related education in research specialization with advanced knowledge of equipment, procedures and analysis methods. Preferred Field of Expertise: Publications in peer-reviewed journals in the same or related field.