UNIV - Postdoctoral Fellow - Department of Medicine: Division of Infectious Diseases

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Meissner Research Lab in the Division of Infectious Diseases and Department of Medicine at MUSC is seeking a post-doctoral fellow to join our laboratory. This position is an excellent opportunity for candidates who have recently obtained (within the past 3 years) or are about to obtain a Ph.D. in immunology, protein biochemistry, virology, or related fields to learn new skills and concepts, to apply their existing experience in new research topics, and to contribute to discoveries in the field of innate immunity and viral pathogenesis. The Meissner lab endeavors to understand the mechanisms of lambda interferon signaling through the lambda interferon receptor 1 (IFNLR1) with an aim towards identifying new ways to manipulate this pathway for the treatment of viral infections. The lab utilizes a variety of in vitro cell culture models including induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) that can differentiated to various cell types, organoids derived from iPSCs or primary human tissue biopsies, and viral replication models (HBV, RSV, VSV). Studies utilize complementary molecular biology techniques and protein and cellular assays. Recent endeavors include targeted molecular and genetic approaches to manipulate gene and RNA expression. The ideal candidate for this position is an organized, detail-oriented, and intrinsically motivated person with expertise and interest in the field of innate immunity, virology, and receptor biology. They will be able to learn new research skills, apply existing skills to new research topics, provide experimental assistance, contribute to the development and writing of research grants, contribute to research manuscripts and work well within a team. Prior experience in RNA biology, molecular biology and a demonstrated track record of publications and/or preprints is preferred. Familiarity with therapeutic oligonucleotide design and validation is desired. Experience with computational and statistical methods in programming languages is desired but not required. Training will be provided by the PI (Dr. Eric Meissner) and by the laboratory’s staff scientist (Dr. Laura Novotny) on all aspects of the job description. This person will be part of a growing, dynamic research laboratory and will take ownership in laying the groundwork for the best lab practices and working environment for future lab members. This position is available to be filled immediately.

Requirements

• A Ph.D. in immunology, microbiology, or related fields.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

• Prior experience in RNA biology, molecular biology and a demonstrated track record of publications and/or preprints is preferred.
• Familiarity with therapeutic oligonucleotide design and validation is desired.
• Experience with computational and statistical methods in programming languages is desired but not required.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a team.
• Comprehensive knowledge of cell culture and in vitro research techniques.
• Demonstrated track record in the form of a strong publication record on topics related to the lab’s research interests.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the PI to execute experiments for independent research projects.
• Maintain cell and organoid cultures.
• Perform cell-based assays, treatments, genetic manipulations and other experimental procedures.
• Perform cellular and molecular biological techniques and protein assays.
• Develop experimental protocols and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Accurately document experimental procedures and data in electronic notebook.
• Analyze data and statistically evaluate experimental datasets using appropriate software.
• Interpret findings in the context of existing scientific literature and integrate results to develop/test hypotheses.
• Apply for intra- and extramural funding at all stages of their career and assist in writing grants with the PI for laboratory funding.
• Participate in professional development opportunities by attending seminars and career-related activities.
• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings.
• Draft manuscripts for publication to peer-reviewed scientific journals and present work at conferences.

Benefits

• The Medical University of South Carolina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. MUSC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion or belief, age, sex, national origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, protected veteran status, family or parental status, or any other status protected by state laws and/or federal regulations. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment based upon applicable qualifications, merit and business need. Medical University of South Carolina participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees.

What This Job Offers

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