Lead Research Specialist - School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology and Immunology

Emory•Atlanta, GA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Zarnitsyna Lab in Emory University’s Department of Microbiology and Immunology is recruiting a Lead Research Specialist for a multidisciplinary project on respiratory virus transmission. The project combines video-recorded ferret transmission experiments, machine learning-based behavioral tracking, and mechanistic mathematical modeling to investigate how contact behavior, contact duration, fomite sharing, and viral shedding shape infection risk. Its long-term goal is to translate this framework to human challenge studies and household cohorts to inform evidence-based mitigation strategies. The role focuses on the mathematical modeling component. Under the supervision of Dr. Zarnitsyna, the specialist will develop and fit mechanistic models of influenza transmission, run simulations, and estimate model parameters using behavioral tracking data, infection outcomes, and viral load measurements. The specialist will also support data and code documentation and quality standards, train others in relevant tools, and contribute to publications and presentations. The position can start immediately. Tasks are generally performed in person at an Emory University location; remote work-from-home days may be granted at department discretion, and Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in a scientific field and two years of research experience, or an equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.
Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against, and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

Nice To Haves

Programming experience in R, Julia, or Python.
Experience writing reproducible analysis code.
Ability to work independently on a collaborative, multidisciplinary project.

Responsibilities

Develop mechanistic mathematical models of infectious disease dynamics and transmission.
Implement and fit mechanistic models of influenza transmission.
Run computational simulations and perform quantitative analyses using R, Python, or Julia.
Estimate model parameters from behavioral tracking data, infection outcomes, and viral load measurements.
Collaborate with experimental and computational research groups.
Maintain documentation and quality standards for data and code.
Train others in relevant tools and in the proper use or operation of laboratory techniques and equipment.
Under minimal supervision, perform specialized and complex research and laboratory tests and procedures, applying or adapting scientific techniques using independent judgment.
Assist in protocol design and investigate and propose alternative experimental procedures for consideration by a principal investigator.
Assist in planning and scheduling research procedures.
Analyze and interpret study results; record results, compile and analyze data, and prepare charts and graphs.
Calibrate, troubleshoot, and perform routine repair and maintenance of equipment.
Review literature on related research developments and techniques and compile findings.
Monitor laboratory processes to maintain quality assurance standards.
Monitor the handling, storage, and disposal of hazardous substances.
Contribute to publications and presentations.
Perform related responsibilities as required.