Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Human Genetics and Functional Genomics / School of Medicine

Duration: 2 years
Location: Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of medicine, Lebanese American University, Lebanon
Field: Human Genetics / Functional Genomics / Rare Diseases

We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join our research team working on human genetics, rare diseases, and functional characterization of genetic variants.

The successful candidate will contribute primarily to projects aimed at the discovery of new genetic disorders, and the identification of novel genetic causes of human diseases. This includes investigation of molecular mechanisms in in-vitro models to investigate the functional impact of novel variants and of variants of uncertain significance (VUS) identified through genomic sequencing, including whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing.

Main research activities

• Functional characterization and validation of genetic variants, particularly VUS and potentially disease-causing variants.
• Design and implementation of functional assays to assess the impact of candidate variants.
• Investigation of the molecular consequences of variants at the RNA and/or protein levels.
• Development and optimization of cellular and molecular biology assays.
• Integration of functional data with clinical and genomic information to support variant classification and interpretation.
• Analysis and interpretation of experimental data.
• Collaboration with clinicians, geneticists, bioinformaticians and international research partners.
• Contribution to scientific publications, presentations and grant applications.

Candidate profile:

We are looking for a candidate with a PhD in Human Genetics, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Genomics, Cell Biology, or a related discipline.

Essential or highly desirable experience includes:

• Strong background in human genetics and molecular biology.

• Familiarity with molecular techniques such as PCR, RT-PCR/qPCR, DNA/RNA analysis, cloning and/or protein analysis.
• Experience designing and interpreting functional assays.
• Ability to independently plan experiments, analyze results and troubleshoot laboratory procedures.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills.

Preferred but not required skills:

• Experience with genetic variant analysis and interpretation, particularly VUS.
• Practical experience in functional validation of genetic variants.

Experience with one or more of the following would be an advantage:

• RNA studies and splicing assays
• Minigene assays
• Gene expression analysis
• Western blotting or protein functional assays
• Cell culture and transfection
• Flow cytometry
• CRISPR/Cas-based approaches
• Functional studies of rare-disease genes
• ACMG/AMP variant classification and evidence assessment
• Next-generation sequencing and genomic data interpretation

What we offer

The position provides an opportunity to work in an interdisciplinary research environment focused on rare diseases, genomic medicine and precision medicine, with access to clinical and genomic datasets and opportunities for collaboration with international research groups.

The appointment is for two years, with the possibility of renewal subject to performance and funding.

How to apply

Interested candidates should submit:

• A CV

• A brief cover letter describing their research experience and interest in functional variant validation
• Contact information for two academic references
• A list of selected publications, if applicable

Applications should be sent to cybel.mehawej@lau.edu.lb

Deadline for the application submission: October 31^st 2026.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.