Postdoctoral Scientist - Guerin Children's - Khokha Lab - Full-Time, On-Site

Job Description Principal Investigator, Dr. Mustafa Khokha, MD, is looking for a Postdoctoral Scientist to join the team in Spring 2026! The Khokha Lab uses Xenopus, a frog model, to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive birth defects.

Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists, the Postdoctoral Scientist will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout training period. May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols. Analyzes and interprets data. May assist in preparation of grant proposals. Participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author. Not responsible for generating grant funds.

What are the Primary Duties and Responsibilities?

May assist in the preparation of grant proposals, but is not responsible for generating grant funds.

May participate in publications and presentations as author or co-author.

Design and perform experiments. Will keep appropriate experimental records and documentation and analyze the results with the Principal Investigator.

May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.

Analyze interpret, summarize, and compile data.

Perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout the training period.

Operate and maintain equipment and instruments.

May observe MD-patient or MD-human research subject interactions as it pertains directly to research being performed.

Qualifications Educational & Experience Requirements :

Doctorate (MD, PhD, VMD, or DDS) in area directly related to field of research specialization required

Acquires thorough technical and theoretical knowledge of research project and objectives during one to five (1-5) year post-doctoral appointment.

Previous experience with basic science / animal laboratory research, including xenopus, other aquatic animal, or mouse models strongly preferred.

Previous training in genomics / genetics preferred.

Experience with IACUC animal protocols preferred.

Works independently on research projects designed by a mentor (typically the PI) within area of specialization.

Demonstrated aptitude to perform experimental protocols and procedures, including detailed data collection, and analysis and operation and maintenance of specialized equipment.

Knowledge of safety standards and maintenance of specialized equipment.

About Us Cedars-Sinai is a leader in providing high-quality healthcare encompassing primary care, specialized medicine and research. Since 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, setting standards in quality and innovative patient care, research, teaching and community service. Today, Cedars- Sinai is known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients. Cedars-Sinai impacts the future of healthcare by developing new approaches to treatment and educating tomorrow's health professionals. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai demonstrates a commitment to the community through programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents.

About the Team Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S., with 886 licensed beds, 2,100 physicians, 2,800 nurses and thousands of other healthcare professionals and staff. Choose this if you want to work in a fast-paced environment that offers the highest level of care to people in the Los Angeles that need our care the most.

Req ID : 12099

Working Title : Postdoctoral Scientist - Guerin Children's - Khokha Lab - Full-Time, On-Site

Department : Research - Childrens

Business Entity : Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Job Category : Academic / Research

Job Specialty : Postdoctoral Scholar

Overtime Status : EXEMPT

Primary Shift : Day

Shift Duration : 8 hour

Base Pay : $62,400.00 - $93,600.00