Postgraduate trainee in Zebrafish Laboratory - Department of Genetics, Yale School of Medicine

Job Details

The trainee will receive structured, hands-on experience in a genetics research laboratory, developing practical skills in molecular biology techniques and vertebrate developmental biology. The trainee will also gain experience in the maintenance and operation of a freshwater tropical fish (zebrafish) facility under the supervision of the principal investigator of the laboratory. The focus of the overall project is to use zebrafish as a model system to study vertebrate development.

Under the supervision of senior lab members and the principal investigator, the trainee will receive hands-on training in the following areas:

• Perform fundamental molecular biology techniques, including DNA cloning, PCR, tissue culture, and microinjection.
• Feed zebrafish, monitor and maintain water quality, and learn the principles of aquatic animal husbandry
• Breed zebrafish, raise young, and learn best practices for maintaining healthy fish lines.
• Maintain tanks and associated equipment, including routine care and troubleshooting.
• Make up solutions, prepare fish food, and assist with general laboratory operations and maintenance.

The trainee will receive hands-on training in zebrafish husbandry, vertebrate development, and molecular biology through participation in ongoing research projects in the lab. This integrated training will prepare the trainee for future graduate or medical school applications by building foundational skills in experimental design, data analysis, and biological problem-solving, as well as practical experience working with an established vertebrate model system.

Requirements

• Minimum qualification is a bachelor’s degree. Preferably in marine biology or related field of biology/molecular biology, or two years of experience working in marine laboratories or molecular biology laboratories.
• Preferred: hands-on experience in molecular biology; strong instrumentation skills; experience in a zebrafish lab or facility.
• High degree of independence, highly motivated, enthusiastic, and strong work ethic.
• Must be self-motivated and physically capable of maintaining 10-liter fish tanks in shelving units.

Contact Information

Process to apply:

• Please send a short description of your work experience, including any work with fish and molecular biology, contact information, CV, and references in a single word or pdf document. Any application missing any of the above information will not be considered.  
• Send materials to: giraldezlab@gmail.com
• Include “zebrafish postbac 2026” in the subject of the email.

Please see the link for further information:

https://postdocs.yale.edu/posts/2026-02-17-postgraduate-trainee-in-zebrafish-laboratory-department-of-genetics-yale-school-of