Postdoctoral Fellow - Nikhil Panicker Lab

Cleveland Clinic
Location: Cleveland, OH
Posted On: 2026-10-09

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Highly motivated individuals with a PhD or MD/PhD in relevant area are encouraged to apply. This training position, under the direct supervision of a Cleveland Clinic Principal Investigator will provide practical training and experience in a research setting. This position is appointed through Cleveland Clinic Research. The successful applicant will be able to demonstrate a commitment to research, a collaborative work ethic and strong communication skills, both written and verbal. This program is expected to be completed within 5 years. Compensation follows the NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale based on total years of postdoctoral experience.

NIH NRSA Postdoctoral Salary Scale

Years of Experience: Stipend for FY 2026

0: $63,480

1: $63,900

2: $64,380

3: $66,948

4: $69,180

5: $71,748

6: $74,424

7 or More: $77,076

The position would be ideal for someone looking to leverage their graduate training, build upon their skillsets and learn new techniques, with the aim to serve as a launchpad to an independent research career. Prior research experience in molecular neuroscience, mouse models of neurodegeneration, and/or utilizing iPSC based systems to model neurodegenerative disease signaling/progression would be immensely preferable!

Mentorship of the candidate(s) wrt promoting training and collaborations with labs at the Cleveland Clinic and beyond, applying for fellowships, grantsmanship, reviewing articles, and facilitating transition to their long term goals will be a priority!

Principal Investigator: Nikhil Panicker, PhD

Cleveland Clinic Research Department: Neurosciences

Lab Research Topics:

Neurodegeneration
Neuroinflammation
Immunology
Neuroscience

For more information about the lab's research, please visit: https://www.lerner.ccf.org/neurosciences/panicker/ or contact Dr. Panicker at [email protected]

Responsibilities:

Independent project design with the goal of data generation, analysis, interpretation and manuscript preparation
Lead research projects independently
Work in a collaborative team

Education:

PhD or MD/PhD required
MD with relevant laboratory experience may substitute for PhD

Languages:

English Proficiency proof required for candidates arriving on J-1, J-2, or F1 + OPT visa status

Work Experience:

Previous experience in a research or academic setting. Graduate student experience meets this requirement.
Scientific writing experience

Physical Requirements:

Ability to perform work in a stationary position for extended periods
Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment
Ability to communicate and exchange accurate information
Ability to distinguish color
Manual dexterity to handle specimens and repair equipment
Ability to lift and transport equipment or specimens weighing up to 20 pounds
May be exposed to hazardous chemicals, bio-hazards, radioactive materials, etc.

Personal Protective Equipment:

PPE per institutional requirements; may vary by laboratory

Preferred Application Materials

CV
Cover Letter
Reference List

All application materials should be submitted directly via email to Nikhil Panicker at [email protected]

Keywords: Postdoc, Research, Neurodegeneration, Neuroimmunology, Neuroinflammation, Parkinson's disease

Pay Range

Minimum Annual Salary: $31,200.00

Maximum Annual Salary: $95,000.00

The pay range displayed on this job posting reflects the anticipated range for new hires. A successful candidate’s actual compensation will be determined after taking factors into consideration such as the candidate’s work history, experience, skill set and education. The pay range displayed does not include any applicable pay practices (e.g., shift differentials, overtime, etc.). The pay range does not include the value of Cleveland Clinic’s benefits package (e.g., healthcare, dental and vision benefits, retirement savings account contributions, etc.).

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