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Postdoc or Research Scientist Position in Ion Channel biophysics/Sperm Physiology (2026)

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated physiologist and/or protein biochemist to join our dynamic and expanding research team. This position is ideal for an independent, quantitative-minded scientist with a deep curiosity for the mechanism of life and interest in translational application.

Our lab investigates the critical role of ion channels and membrane receptors in regulating reproductive signaling pathways and the fertilization process. We employ a multidisciplinary approach, combining genetic manipulation, protein engineering, and advanced imaging with insights from human genetics and evolution.

This is a full-time position with secured NIH funding for projects on the CatSper ion channel and sperm physiology. Trainees are also strongly encouraged to apply for postdoctoral fellowships during their tenure in the lab. Compensation at Yale scale (https://postdocs.yale.edu/postdocs/being-a-postdoc-at-yale/postdoctoral-compensation).

Research Projects: The successful candidate will take a leading role in the pioneering projects:

(1) Sperm ion channel & transporter investigation: Characterize/deorphanize novel ion channels and transporters in the sperm using direct patch-clamp recording, functional imaging, and/or in heterologous expression systems.

(2) CatSper Channel Drug Discovery: Perform detailed biochemical, biophysical, and pharmacological analysis of the first-ever functional chimeric CatSper channels in newly developed stable cell lines and conduct HTS hit validation in native systems. Establishing other functional screen platforms.

Required Qualifications:

·      A Ph.D. with a strong background in ion channel/membrane receptor biology, organelle physiology, signal transduction, and/or drug discovery.

·      Extensive hands-on technical expertise in protein biochemistry, electrophysiology (patch-clamp) and/or dynamic functional imaging.

To Apply: Please send a single PDF file to Jean-Ju Chung at jean-ju.chung@yale.edu containing the following:

(1) A brief cover letter outlining your research interests and career goals.

(2) Your Curriculum Vitae

(3) Contact information of three professional references.

Graduate Students

Candidates for graduate study should apply through the BBS program and Molecular Medicine, Pharmacology, and Physiology track (MMPP) or Molecular Cell Biology, Genetics and Development (MCGD). For application information and more details about the graduate program, please visit the BBS Program website. 

Graduate students who are interested in lab rotations should contact Dr. Chung.

Are You Yale Undergraduate Students? (currently no openings)

Motivated undergraduates who want to join lab for volunteer, internship, and/or senior research thesis should contact Dr. Chung.

Consider Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF)  http://gsas.yale.edu/diversity/programs/summer-undergraduate-research-fellowship-surf

Freshmen! Consider to apply Yale First Year Summer Research Fellowship in the Sciences and Engineering https://science.yalecollege.yale.edu/yale-college-first-year-summer-research-fellowship-sciences-engineering

Summer funding for first years, sophomores, and juniors! Consider Yale College Dean’s Research Fellowship https://science.yalecollege.yale.edu/yale-undergraduate-research/fellowship-grants/yale-college-deans-research-fellowship