Title of the Position: Postgraduate Associate Position in RNA therapy at Adams Center for Parkinson’s Disease Research
Department and School: Department of Neurology, Yale University
Anticipated Appointment Dates: February 2nd, 2026 (open until filled).
Contact Email: Dunhui.Li@yale.edu
Introduction of School/Department
The Stephen & Denise Adams Center for Parkinson’s Disease Research at Yale School of Medicine is an inter-departmental center for precision medicine. Directed by Dr. Clemens Scherzer, the Center is dedicated to solving Parkinson’s disease using advanced genomics, artificial intelligence, and novel therapeutic approaches including antisense oligonucleotides. The Center brings together experts across neurology, genetics, computational biology, and RNA therapeutics to accelerate the development of precision treatments for Parkinson’s disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.
Overview of the Position
The Adams Center is seeking a highly motivated Postgraduate Associate to train under the mentorship of Dr. Dunhui Li and Dr. Clemens Scherzer. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to receive comprehensive training and hands-on experience in cutting-edge neurodegenerative disease biology, with a particular focus on developing antisense oligonucleotide therapeutics for Parkinson’s disease.
Education
The selected candidate will receive comprehensive training in preclinical testing of nucleic acid therapeutic approaches targeting Parkinson’s disease causative and risk genes. The role provides exposure to both fundamental biology and translational research, preparing the trainee for advanced graduate or medical training and a future career in biomedical research.
Training
The candidate will receive training in molecular and cellular techniques including but not limited to cell culture, transfections, RNA/DNA isolation, Western blotting, immunostaining, ELISA, quantitative PCR, single-cell RNA sequencing, and other related techniques. Additionally, the candidate will have the chance to be involved in manuscript or research report writing if projects are progressing very well.
Mentoring
The trainee will be directly mentored by Dr. Dunhui Li and Dr. Clemens Scherzer. The candidate will participate in research group meetings and will be mentored in scientific communication, including the preparation of figures, reports, and presentations. The associate will be part of a collaborative and supportive environment with tailored mentorship.
Location
Training will take place in the Adams Center located at 300 George St and 101 College St, New Haven, Connecticut, 06511.
Appointment Terms
Postgraduate appointments at Yale are for one year with the possibility of renewal.
Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree in biology, genetics, neuroscience, or a related field.
- Previous laboratory experience in using molecular and cell biology techniques.
- Interest in neuroscience and translational biomedical research.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
Process to Apply:
Position will remain open until it is filled. Interested applicants should submit a single PDF containing:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae (CV)
- Contact information for two references
Please send application materials to Dunhui.Li@yale.edu.