Scholarship: Fully-funded
Degree: Bachelor, Master, Ph.D
Nationality: International Students
Location: USA
Application deadlines: Open
Scholarship Description:
The Shen Mengcheng Research Group in the Department of Cardiology at Washington University in St. Louis is currently recruiting postdoctoral researchers. The lab focuses on precision cardiovascular medicine, utilizing cutting-edge techniques such as human iPSC-derived 2D cardiovascular cells, 3D vascularized cardiac organoids, CRISPR gene editing, high-throughput CRISPR knockout/activation screening, single-cell multi-omics, tissue engineering, and animal disease models.
Dr. Shen Mengcheng, who will join the Department of Cardiology as an Assistant Professor in May 2025, graduated from the University of Alberta’s Department of Physiology and conducted postdoctoral research in cardiovascular studies at Stanford University, where he also served as a lecturer. He received the NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award in 2023. The lab has ample funding and an excellent research environment, and we invite 1-2 postdoctoral researchers to join our team.
Available Subjects:
- Developing Efficient iPSC Differentiation Techniques
We have successfully established differentiation protocols for various cardiovascular cell types for disease modeling and cell therapy (published in Nature Cardiovascular Research 2023; Circulation 2023; Circulation Research 2021; Circulation 2019), with two international patents in the differentiation of vascular endothelial cells and cardiac pericytes. - Investigating Genetic Drivers of Cardiovascular Toxicity from Anticancer Drugs
By combining iPSC models with high-throughput CRISPRi/a screening, we aim to reveal the mechanisms of cardiovascular toxicity induced by anticancer drugs (Cell Stem Cell 2024). - Analyzing Pathogenic Genetic Variants Associated with Congenital Heart Disease
We explore coding and non-coding genetic variations related to congenital heart disease using cell type-specific approaches (Cell 2022). - Establishing Predictive Models for Drug Candidates
Using iPSC-derived cells and genome-wide single-cell perturb-seq technology, we construct foundational models to predict the effects of drug candidates on cardiovascular diseases.
Eligibility criteria:
- Educational Background: PhD in Basic Medicine, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Chemical Biology, Developmental Genetics, Bioinformatics, or related fields, either obtained or imminent.
- Research Skills: Ability to independently design and advance projects, with critical thinking and innovative mindset.
- Language Proficiency: Strong academic writing and communication skills in English.
- Personal Qualities: Passion for research, strong sense of responsibility, and teamwork spirit.
Application Procedure:
Please consolidate the following materials into a single PDF file and send it to [email protected]. Use the subject line “Postdoctoral Application – Shen Lab”:
Reference Information: Names and contact details of three references.
Cover Letter: Briefly outline your research experience, interests, and career goals (1 page).
CV (in English): Include your educational background, research experience, technical skills, and publication list.
Proof of Highest Degree.
Additional Relevant Materials: Such as transcripts (undergraduate and master’s), published papers, awards, and certifications.
