Job Details

Please apply directly on the RCUH website to be considered for the position.

POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW (GENE DELIVERY) ID# 225627. 

CLOSING DATE November 25, 2025, or until filled. Applications received after this deadline may be considered only if the position is not filled or up to the date a selection has been approved by the RCUH (whichever comes first). INQUIRIES:  Jesse Owens 808-692-1503 (Oahu). 

(2) Regular, Full-Time, RCUH Non-Civil Service position with the John A. Burns School of Medicine, Institute for Biogenesis Research, located in Honolulu, Hawai‘i.  Continuation of employment is dependent upon program/operational needs, satisfactory work performance, availability of funds, and compliance with applicable Federal/State laws. 

MONTHLY SALARY RANGE:  $5,300 - $6,600/Mon. 

DUTIES:  Forms and leads a rational design and directed evolution project with the purpose of improving gene delivery by insertional enzymes. Improves the site specificity of targeted integration into the genome by transposases and integrases using novel protein engineering methods. Works independently to design own research program and develops research plans. Conducts a wide variety of molecular biology techniques, some of which include: complex plasmid design and construction; work with bacteriophage; Fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS); tissue culture including embryonic stem cell culture, southern and western blotting, and novel assays designed to test DNA binding and targeted insertion by transposases. Troubleshoots problems related to molecular biology. Performs data analysis and data interpretation. Prepares manuscripts and presentations of results for the scientific community and the public. Writes grant proposals. Trains and oversees undergraduate and graduate students. Manages general lab organization and maintenance. Presents data at lab meetings. 

PRIMARY QUALIFICATIONS: 

EDUCATION

PhD from an accredited college or university in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Developmental and Reproductive Biology, or related field.

EXPERIENCE

One to three (1-3) years of experience working on publications or projects demonstrating proficiency at protein engineering methods and rational design approaches in a research laboratory. Evidence of a strong publication history with lead-author publications relating to studies involving integrating vectors or gene  therapy  techniques.

KNOWLEDGE

Working knowledge of general principles of cell biology and molecular biology. Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques, such as complex plasmid design and construction, bacteriophage, FACS, tissue culture, embryonic stem cell culture, southern and western blotting.

ABILITIES & SKILLS

Ability to communicate well both orally and in writing. Ability to use common personal computer (PC) software for word processing (e.g., Microsoft Word), and database/spreadsheet (e.g., Microsoft Excel). Ability to organize PowerPoint presentations. Demonstrated ability to work independently without regular supervision, troubleshoot own problems, and generate research plans, publications and grant proposals. Post Offer/Employment Condition:  Must be able to complete the UH Title IX training within 30 days from date of hire, and re-certify annually. Must be able to complete the UH Laboratory Safety training within six (6) months from date of hire

PHYSICAL/MEDICAL DEMANDS

Able to lift and carry up to twenty (20) pounds unassisted.

POLICY/REGULATORY REQUIREMENT

As a condition of employment, employee will be subject to all applicable RCUH policies, procedures, and trainings and, as applicable, subject to University of Hawai‘i's and/or business entity's policies, procedures, and trainings.   Violation of RCUH's, UH's, or business entity's policies and/or procedures or applicable State or Federal laws and/or regulations may lead to disciplinary action (including, but not limited to possible termination of employment, personal fines, civil and/or criminal penalties, etc.). 

SECONDARY QUALIFICATIONS:   

Experience in insertion site recovery techniques. Experience performing molecular biology sub-cloning techniques. Experience in directed evolution methods. Demonstrated ability to perform the following: gel electrophoresis; sequence analysis; PCR optimization; T7 assay.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please go to https://www.rcuh.com/opportunities/job-openings/. You must submit the following documents online to be considered for the position: 1) Cover Letter, 2) Resume, 3) Professional References, 4) Copy of Degree(s)/Transcript(s)/Certificate(s). All online applications must be submitted/received by the closing date (11:59 P.M. Hawai‘i Standard Time/RCUH receipt time) as stated on the job posting. If you do not have access to our system and the closing date is imminent, you may send additional documents to rcuh_recruitment@rcuh.com. If you have questions on the application process and/or need assistance, please call (808)956-7262 or (808)956-0872. Please visit https://www.rcuh.com/policies-forms-documents/benefits-at-a-glance.pdf for more information on RCUH`s Benefits for eligible employees.

RCUH`s mission is to support and enhance research, development and training in Hawai‘i, with a focus on the University of Hawai‘i. 

RCUH is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, marital status, reproductive health decision, citizenship, gender identity or expression, domestic or sexual violence victim status, military/veteran status, or other grounds protected under applicable federal and state laws, except as permitted by law.