Postdoctoral Associate - Hwang Lab

Broad Institute • Cambridge, MA

1d

About The Position

The Hwang laboratory at the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard is seeking a postdoctoral associate to investigate the host genetic landscape of human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven cellular immortalization and transformation. The project focuses on understanding and inhibiting HPV-driven carcinogenesis, with work advancing from genome-scale CRISPRi and CRISPRa screens in primary human cells to validation and mechanistic characterization of screen hits.

The successful candidate will lead hit validation and downstream mechanistic studies, complete ongoing sub-pool screens, and drive resulting manuscripts, with opportunity to develop independent follow-up directions. The candidate will work in a multi-institute collaboration and contribute to basic and translational research. Training and expertise in virology and functional genomics are essential. The role is particularly suited to candidates interested in host-pathogen interactions, especially virus-induced cancers.

Requirements

• PhD in virology, microbiology, genetics, immunology, or a closely related field.
• 0+ years of experience.
• Record of successfully leading projects through publications in scientific journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Solid understanding of and hands-on experience in functional genomics, including CRISPR screens (CRISPRi/CRISPRa), molecular cloning, lentivirus production, and next-generation sequencing.
• Experience in virology assays and handling and modulating primary human cells in the presence and absence of infection.
• Excellent oral and written communication, wet lab, organization, and time-management skills.
• High initiative and motivation, with ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong desire to learn new methods and ability to think creatively to solve problems.
• Ability to work effectively in a multi-institute collaboration setting.

Nice To Haves

• Bioinformatic analysis of screen and sequencing data.
• Passion for research on host-pathogen interactions, especially virus-induced cancers.

Responsibilities

• Design and carry out experiments independently and with team members to support the individual project and the group’s collective success.
• Lead validation and mechanistic characterization of hits from CRISPRi/CRISPRa screens.
• Complete ongoing sub-pool screens.
• Consult the literature, supervisor, and other scientific staff as needed to troubleshoot experiments.
• Investigate, learn, and develop methods and technologies relevant to the project.
• Maintain and share detailed experimental records, documentation, and written protocols with team members.
• Contribute to grants, papers, and patents.
• Drive resulting manuscripts.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan.
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
• At least 13 paid holidays and winter closure.
• Paid time off.
• Parental and family care leave.
• Employee assistance program.
• Competitive benefits package.

What This Job Offers

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