Summary: The Zhou Lab at the University of Chicago is inviting applications for Postdoctoral Researcher positions beginning July 1, 2026 (flexible start date thereafter). Led by Zinan Zhou, Incoming Assistant Professor in the Department of Neurology and affiliated with the Center for Motor Neuron Disease, the lab focuses on understanding how somatic mosaicism and age-associated mutagenesis contribute to brain aging and major neurodegenerative diseases.
This is an exciting opportunity for researchers interested in integrating genetics, genomics, computational biology, and neuroscience to address fundamental questions in aging and neurodegeneration.
Postdoctoral Positions in Somatic Mosaicism, Brain Aging & Neurodegeneration – University of Chicago
Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization | University of Chicago |
| Lab | Zhou Lab – Somatic Mosaicism in Brain Aging & Disease |
| Designation | Postdoctoral Researcher |
| Principal Investigator | Zinan Zhou, PhD |
| Department | Department of Neurology & Center for Motor Neuron Disease |
| Research Focus | Somatic mosaicism, neurodegeneration, aging |
| Start Date | July 1, 2026 (Flexible) |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois, USA |
| Application Mode | |
| Contact Email | zinan.zhou@gmail.com |
Designation
Postdoctoral Researcher (Postdoctoral Fellow)
Research Area
The lab investigates the role of somatic mosaicism and age-related mutational processes in:
- Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
- Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
- Alzheimer’s disease (AD)
A central research goal is to understand how rare, focal genetic alterations in brain cells may initiate focal disease onset and drive the spread of neurodegeneration. The lab also explores how aging-related mutational processes create vulnerability to neurodegenerative diseases.
Location
Chicago, Illinois, United States
University of Chicago
Eligibility / Qualification
Applicants with expertise in one or more of the following areas are encouraged to apply:
- Neurodegeneration and neuroscience
- Human genetics and genomics
- Bioinformatics and computational biology
- Machine learning applications in biology
- Single-cell and single-nucleus sequencing technologies
- Spatial omics and multi-omics approaches
Candidates should hold (or expect to complete before the start date) a PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant discipline.
Job Description
Selected postdoctoral fellows will:
- Investigate human postmortem brain tissue to study somatic mosaicism
- Integrate innovative experimental and computational methodologies
- Apply genomics and multi-omics approaches to neurodegenerative disease research
- Collaborate within interdisciplinary research networks across UChicago
- Receive strong mentorship, co-mentorship, and structured career development guidance
This position offers a highly collaborative research environment with opportunities to develop independence and establish a strong academic research trajectory.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A brief statement outlining research interests
Applications should be sent via email to:
zinan.zhou@gmail.com
Last Date to Apply
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Early application is encouraged.
