Postdoctoral Associate - Hwang Lab

Broad Institute • Cambridge, MA

2d • $70,000 - $92,667

About The Position

The Hwang laboratory at the Broad Institute of MIT & Harvard seeks a highly motivated postdoctoral associate to investigate the host genetic landscape of human papillomavirus (HPV)-driven cellular immortalization and transformation. The research addresses HPV-associated cancers, which remain an urgent public health concern, and focuses on the HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins and their role in carcinogenesis.

The team has performed genome-scale CRISPRi and CRISPRa screens in primary human cells and is advancing to validate and mechanistically characterize screen hits. The postdoctoral associate will lead hit validation and downstream mechanistic studies, complete ongoing sub-pool screens, and drive resulting manuscripts, with opportunities to develop independent follow-up directions. The candidate will work in a multi-institute collaboration setting and contribute to basic and translational research on host-pathogen interactions, particularly virus-induced cancers.

Requirements

• PhD in virology, microbiology, genetics, immunology, or a closely related field.
• Training and expertise in virology and functional genomics.
• Record of leading projects successfully through publications in scientific journals and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Solid understanding of and hands-on experience in functional genomics, including CRISPRi/CRISPRa screens, 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 level of 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.

Responsibilities

• Work independently and with team members to design and carry out experiments essential to the individual project and the group's collective success.
• Lead the 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 new 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 manuscripts resulting from the project.

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Flexible spending and health savings accounts
• At least 13 paid holidays
• Winter closure
• Paid time off
• Parental and family care leave
• Employee assistance program

What This Job Offers

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