HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell Biology

HMS - Postdoctoral Fellow in Cell Biology

We invite applicants for a postdoctoral fellow position in the Harper lab at Harvard Medical School in Boston, Massachusetts. Our laboratory works at the intersection of protein and organelle quality control, the ubiquitin system, and autophagy and its role in neurodegenerative disease.

Through this systematic view, we seek to answer fundamental questions in cell biology and biochemistry:
What are the molecular pathways that contribute to organelle repair in response to damage, with a primary focus on the endolysosomal system and mitochondria? What are the protein interaction networks that make up dynamic organelles? How do familial mutations in key organellar systems promote diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease?

The successful candidate will work with Dr. Wade Harper to develop a research project within the scope of the lab focus. The candidate will be expected to carry out research, apply for fellowship funding, contribute to the writing of grants and manuscripts, participate in teaching and mentoring of lab members, and contribute to overall lab operations and a collaborative environment.

• Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D. in Cell or Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or related fields.
• Expertise in mass spectrometry, protein purification, gene editing/cell engineering, structural biology would be beneficial.

• Statement of Research for PhD work
• Cover Letter describing your interest in the lab and initial ideas for new research directions or projects you could undertake in the lab.
• A note with names and contact information for three people who have agreed to serve as your reference.

• Final date to receive applications:
  February 4, 2026
• Start date:
  
  The position is expected to start on or around March 2, 2026 with some flexibility.
• Duration:
  This is a one-year term position from the date of hire, with the possibility of extension, contingent upon work performance, business need, and continued funding to support the position.

Wade Harper & Xheni Vaqari
Harvard Medical School
Department of Cell Biology
240 Longwood Ave.
Boston, MA 02115

This position is salaried and benefits eligible. Information regarding postdoctoral fellow salary, which is determined by the number of years post PhD, and benefits can be found at (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./guidelines
.

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard’s academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university’s non-discrimination policy.

Harvard’s equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.