Post-Doc Research Associate - Cameron/Arnold Lab

UNC-Chapel Hill • Chapel Hill, NC

23d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cameron-Arnold laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, NC, seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral research associate to investigate the biochemical and biophysical mechanisms of RNA virus genome replication. The NIH-supported laboratory studies the enzymology of RNA-dependent RNA polymerases, viral ATPases and helicases, and genome-replication protein complexes in picornaviruses, alphaviruses, and coronaviruses.

Research will examine molecular mechanisms of viral RNA synthesis, including initiation, elongation, nucleotide selection, fidelity, RNA recombination, and regulation of viral replication machinery. Other research areas include the kinetic mechanisms of viral ATPases and helicases; assembly and function of multiprotein replication complexes; coronavirus RNA proofreading and transcription; and biochemical mechanisms of antiviral drug action and resistance. Studies use quantitative enzymology, protein biochemistry, molecular biophysics, and complementary structural and cellular approaches.

The successful candidate will develop and pursue mechanistic research projects within the laboratory’s established areas of investigation. The laboratory aims to establish a quantitative understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing RNA virus genome replication and use this knowledge to identify opportunities for antiviral therapeutic development. The position offers opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration, development of advanced biochemical and biophysical expertise, scientific publication, and preparation for an independent research career.

Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline.

Nice To Haves

• Prior research experience in protein biochemistry, enzymology, molecular biophysics, or mechanistic studies of protein-nucleic acid interactions.
• Experience with recombinant protein expression and purification, quantitative enzyme kinetics, fluorescence spectroscopy, nucleic acid biochemistry, or biophysical characterization of macromolecular complexes.
• Experience with pre-steady-state kinetics or viral replication proteins is particularly valuable but not required.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills, scientific curiosity, and effective communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and pursue mechanistic research projects within the laboratory’s established areas of investigation.
• Investigate the biochemical and biophysical mechanisms of RNA virus genome replication.
• Conduct studies using quantitative enzymology, protein biochemistry, molecular biophysics, and complementary structural and cellular approaches.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree