Postdocs & RSEs to build spatial omics, protein engineering, and molecular sensor technologies for brain, cancer, aging, and immunology.
Biology is changing rapidly. New advances in spatial omics, molecular sensors, protein engineering, and sequencing-linked screening now make it possible to measure RNAs, proteins, and molecular interactions in tissues and cells with unprecedented resolution and scale.
The Gu Lab at the University of Washington develops and applies next-generation technologies at the interface of spatial sequencing, protein sensors, synthetic biology, and molecular engineering. We work closely with collaborators in neuroscience, cancer, immunology, aging, and development to build new technologies and use them to answer important biological and translational questions.
What we offer
Developing cutting-edge technologies at the frontier of spatial omics, protein engineering, and synthetic biology
High-impact projects with strong opportunities for publications, presentations, and collaborative science
Access to unique datasets, experimental platforms, and interdisciplinary collaborators at UW
Experimental and computational training across the full cycle: design → assay → sequencing → analysis
A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative environment that values rigor, mentorship, and creativity
Current openings (reviewed on a rolling basis)
1) Postdoctoral Fellow — Protein Engineering, Molecular Sensors & Spatial Sequencing Technologies
Develop new approaches in protein engineering, biosensor design, sequencing-coupled screening, and spatially resolved molecular technologies. This position sits at the interface of protein display, sequencing, AI-guided design/engineering, and biological application.
2) Research Scientist/Engineer I (RSE1) — RNA Polymerase Engineering & Functional Assays
Build and test engineered RNA polymerases, protein binders, and optogenetic control systems using molecular cloning, protein expression/purification, in vitro transcription assays, fluorescence-based assays, sequencing-linked readouts, and related experimental workflows.
3) Postdoctoral Fellow — Spatial Bioinformatics
Lead computational method development and analysis for spatial multi‑omics data, in close collaboration with experimentalists and clinical/translational partners.
4) Research Scientist/Engineer I (RSE1) — Spatial Bioinformatics
Build and operate robust, reproducible pipelines from raw sequencing/imaging data through spatial mapping, segmentation, and downstream single‑cell/spatial analyses.
How to apply / Contact
Please see the full posting pages for details on responsibilities and application materials.
We are also always interested in hearing from enthusiastic postdocs and graduate students.
Contact: Dr. Liangcai Gu (gulc (at) uw.edu)
Equal Opportunity
The University of Washington is an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates.
Last updated by LG on 4/13/2026