Postdoctoral Researcher – RNA Biology and Therapeutics in Kidney Disease

Posted on: September 8, 2026

Location:

Stony Brook, New York, United States Institution: Department of Medicine, Stony Brook University.

Description

The Aboudehen Laboratory at Stony Brook University (SBU) is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to investigate RNA regulatory mechanisms and develop RNA-based therapeutic strategies for autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). ADPKD is dosage-sensitive disease and is caused primarily by mutations in PKD1, in which reductions in functional PKD1 below a critical threshold causes renal cysts. Our research program has two complementary themes:

  • Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in ADPKD: determining how disease-associated lncRNAs regulate cystogenesis and identifying the pathways through which they modify disease.
  • PKD1 mRNA biology: defining how RNA-binding proteins, RNA-RNA interactions, and other post-transcriptional mechanisms regulate PKD1 mRNA and protein expression.

investigating Current research directions include:

  • Investigate lncRNAs using mouse genetics, cell models, and RNA interaction assays.
  • Studying RNA-binding proteins and regulatory RNAs that control PKD1 expression, including mapping interactions and binding sites using eCLIP/CLIP-based approaches.
  • Validation of therapeutic targets in genetically engineered mouse models of PKD and primary ADPKD cells.
  • Development of RNA-targeted therapeutic approaches, including antisense oligonucleotide.

Qualifications

  • Applicants should have a PhD or equivalent degree in RNA biology, molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline.
  • Candidates should have strong molecular and cellular biology skills, a demonstrated ability to conduct independent research, and a strong interest in RNA regulation and disease mechanisms.

Preferred Expertise

Preference will be given to candidates with strong hands-on experience in RNA biology and RNA-based assays, particularly:

  • eCLIP, iCLIP, CLIP-seq, or related RNA–protein interaction and binding-site mapping approaches.
  • RNA-targeting technologies, including siRNA, antisense oligonucleotides.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should submit:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • A brief statement describing previous research experience
  • Contact information for three references

Applications should be sent to: [email protected]