The Nicoli Lab invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate to investigate a fundamental question in biology: What makes tissues resilient, and how can we engineer tissues to enhance their resilience?

Our lab studies specialized barrier cells, including endothelial and epithelial cells, to understand how tissues develop, maintain their function, and adapt to genetic, mechanical, and environmental challenges throughout the lifespan. We aim to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable tissues to withstand stress, understand how disruptions in these mechanisms contribute to human health and disease, and ultimately harness these insights to engineer more resilient tissues.
To address these questions, we integrate developmental biology, including studies of zebrafish embryos, with quantitative live imaging and molecular, cellular, and genomic approaches. At the molecular level, we investigate post-transcriptional regulation as a key mechanism of tissue resilience, with a particular focus on microRNAs, mRNA translation and localization, RNA-binding proteins, and biomolecular condensation.
The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop innovative approaches, formulate original research questions, and pursue discoveries at the intersection of developmental biology, RNA biology, and tissue engineering. We welcome scientists who are excited to think creatively, explore new directions, and contribute to an evolving research program.
Learn more about our research at the Nicoli Lab website: https://nicolilab.com/

Responsibilities
The postdoctoral associate will:
Design and lead research projects investigating the cellular and molecular mechanisms that govern tissue development and resilience.
Develop, adapt, and apply quantitative live-imaging approaches to study cellular behavior and tissue organization in vivo.
Integrate molecular, cellular, and genomic approaches to investigate post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms.
Analyze and interpret experimental data, present findings at scientific meetings, and contribute to the preparation of manuscripts for publication.
Collaborate across disciplines and contribute to the intellectual development of the lab, including the formulation of new research questions.
Mentor students and other trainees, as appropriate.

Qualifications
We are looking for curious, creative, and motivated scientists who enjoy tackling fundamental biological questions and developing new ways to approach challenging problems. Strong scientific reasoning, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively are essential.

Applicants should have, or be close to completing, a PhD in developmental biology, cell biology, genetics, bioengineering, RNA biology, or a related field.
Experience in one or more of the following areas is particularly desirable:
Developmental biology and tissue morphogenesis
Quantitative imaging, including live imaging and image analysis
In vivo model organisms
RNA biology, post-transcriptional regulation, or biomolecular condensation
Molecular, cellular, or genomic approaches to understanding tissue function
A primary research manuscript where the applicant is first or a leading author

Candidates with different scientific backgrounds are encouraged to apply if they are excited by the lab’s research questions and interested in exploring the intersection of developmental biology, RNA regulation, and tissue resilience. We value scientific curiosity, intellectual independence, and the ability to bring new perspectives to collaborative research.

Research Environment
The Nicoli Lab is part of the Yale Cardiovascular Research Center and the Departments of Genetics and Internal Medicine at Yale School of Medicine. Yale offers a highly interdisciplinary research environment spanning cardiovascular biology, developmental biology, genetics, and translational research. The successful candidate will have opportunities to engage with complementary scientific expertise and access institutional research resources, including advanced imaging facilities and collaborative research communities.
Learn more about the Yale Cardiovascular Research Center and the Yale Department of Genetics.

Position Information
·       Position: Full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate
·       Location: In person at the Yale Cardiovascular Research Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
·       Anticipated start date: Spring–Summer 2027

Application Instructions
Interested applicants should email the following materials to Stefania.nicoli@yale.edu:
A curriculum vitae, including publications.
A cover letter describing research experience, scientific interests, motivation for joining the lab, and career goals.
Contact information for three references.
Applicants with questions about the position are welcome to reach out by email. We look forward to hearing from scientists who are excited to help uncover the principles of tissue resilience.