Location: University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine
Open Date: Oct 23, 2026
Description
A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at the University of Pennsylvania, under the mentorship of X. Sherry Liu, PhD, to investigate the role of bone marrow adipocytes (BMAds) in skeletal adaptation during lactation.
Lactation induces profound and rapidly reversible changes in both the skeleton and bone marrow adipose tissue to meet the high metabolic and calcium demands of milk production. Our research seeks to understand the functional role of BMAds during this process. The project integrates transgenic mouse models, in vivo skeletal imaging, bone histomorphometry, cell and molecular biology, and metabolic approaches to investigate interactions among BMAds and bone cells.
The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. X. Sherry Liu and will be part of a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary musculoskeletal research community at Penn. The project includes collaborations with investigators with complementary expertise in skeletal biology and metabolism, including Ling Qin, PhD (UPenn McKay Lab), and Fanxin Long, PhD (CHOP), and provides access to the broad research and training environment of the Penn Center for Musculoskeletal Disorders (PCMD). The fellow will have opportunities to develop independent research directions in bone–adipose interactions, skeletal metabolism, and women’s musculoskeletal health, with strong mentorship toward an independent research career.
This position is open to both U.S. citizens and foreign nationals. Candidates requiring visa sponsorship are welcome to apply.
Qualifications
Candidates should have a PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent degree in bone biology, adipose biology, metabolism, physiology, bioengineering, or a related field. Experience with mouse models, molecular/cellular biology, histology, imaging, or metabolic assays is desirable. We are particularly interested in candidates who are highly motivated, collaborative, and interested in developing an independent research career.
Application Instructions
Applications should be sent through Interfolio using the link below and include: (1) cover letter, (2) curriculum vitae ; and (3) contact information for three references.
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.
