A Research Associate typically has more experience than a Research Assistant. Responsibilities can include the planning and design of research projects, conducting experiments, analyzing data, contributing to research publications or grant proposals, and collaborating with other researchers. Works in a variety of fields within science or the social sciences, in programs based at a university or research institution, or works on government or industry sponsored research projects. Conducts field or library research or recruits participants for a study; may also assist with legal research. These roles are often held by people with advanced degrees in their field of study with several years of experience in research or academia.
Full-time Research Associate, Department of Oral Medicine Location:
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Open Date:
Aug 20, 2026
Deadline:
The Department of Oral Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine invites applications for a Research Associate position within the Academic Support Staff. The Research Associate will report to Dr. Cagla Akay-Espinoza. The successful candidate will participate in a research program that uses state-of-the-art technologies and experimental models to identify and characterize discrete cell subtypes within complex multicellular environments. The Research Associate will conduct laboratory studies involving molecular biology, next-generation sequencing, mammalian cell culture, and mouse models. Responsibilities may also include experimental design, data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and contributions to grant applications. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to develop an independent research project that is scientifically aligned with the laboratory's research program and to pursue external research funding. Qualifications Applicants must have a Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent doctoral degree and approximately five years of relevant postdoctoral research experience.
The successful candidate should demonstrate:
Extensive expertise in molecular and cellular biology Experience with next-generation sequencing technologies Proficiency in mammalian cell culture and mouse models A strong publication record Strong scientific writing and communication skills Ability to contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment Experience with electrophysiological recording, multielectrode array recording, computational analysis, or next-generation sequencing data analysis is desirable but not required. Application Instructions Applicants must apply via the posting in Interfolio, but may reach out to Dr. Cagla Akay-Espinoza (akayc@upenn.edu) with additional questions. To apply, visit https://apply.interfolio.com/191978 Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. je-3d7954e59457405cb446392f15979a57
