The University of Iowa, College of Dentistry has an open post-doctoral research scholar position in the in the Moreno/Petrin Laboratories at the Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research. Our laboratories focus in understanding the Genetic and Epigenetic Causes of Orofacial Clefting and Skeletal Malocclusion Anomalies. We are interested in identifying genotype/epigenotype-phenotype correlations underlying the phenotypic variations present in these conditions. We utilized a myriad of phenotypic approaches that leverage both 2D and 3D dentofacial patient records combined with modern phenotypic methodologies to characterize phenotypes amenable for genetic and epigenetic studies of craniofacial variation. We also have several different sample cohorts available for genomic and epigenomic analyses. Dr. Lina Moreno is the DEO of the Department of Orthodontics of the College of Dentistry and works primarily on Skeletal Malocclusion Anomalies. Dr. Petrin is an Assistant Professor at the Iowa Institute for Oral Health Research at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and works primarily on Orofacial Clefting.

Duties will include:

• Perform experiments using molecular and cellular techniques, included but not limited to PCR, DNA sequencing, cell culture, genotyping, DNA bisulfite conversion, qPCR, microarrays, CRISPR-based genome, and epigenome editing;


• Genetic and epigenetic data generation, analyses, and interpretation;


• Assist with manuscripts and grant writing;


• Assist with lab and equipment maintenance;


• Students training and supervision; and


• Results dissemination at professional meetings.

• PhD in Biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Oral Biology, Oral Sciences, or a related scientific discipline.

• Prior work experience with molecular and cell biology techniques like PCR, qPCR, genotyping, DNA sequencing techniques, cell culture.


• Proven skills in analyzing genetic data.


• Previous experience with human samples, DNA isolation from blood and/or saliva, samples inventory and management.


• Attention to detail and excellent record keeping.


• Proven ability of independent and organized research.


• Good written and verbal communication skills, and a publication record.


• Ability to work in diverse and inclusive environment.

• Knowledge of human craniofacial development and/or embryology, genetics of craniofacial anomalies;


• Ability to perform relevant literature reviews and assist with manuscript and grant proposals preparation; and


• Ability to analyze and summarize data to generate tables and figures for grants and manuscripts.

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