Postdoctoral Research Associate

University of Nebraska Medical Center • Omaha, NE

13h • Onsite

About The Position

Dr. Jian Xie’s laboratory in the Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) is seeking an outstanding candidate for a Postdoctoral Research Associate position. The successful candidate will investigate the roles of cell surface RNAs and glycoRNAs in viral entry and infection, with a particular emphasis on oncogenic viruses such as human papillomavirus (HPV). Recent studies have revealed that a subset of RNAs is glycosylated and displayed on the cell surface (cell surface glycoRNAs), and that RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) are common components of the cell surface. These molecules are strategically situated to regulate fundamental biological processes, including cell–cell communication, pathogen recognition, and receptor-mediated signaling. Emerging evidence suggests that these newly identified surface molecules form functional complexes with important roles in immune regulation and cancer biology. However, the mechanistic principles governing their functions during pathogen infection remain unknown. The Xie laboratory studies virus–host interactions in viral infection, cancer, and innate immunity. Our recent work indicates that cell surface RNAs (csRNAs) and cell surface RNA-binding proteins (csRBPs) are critical determinants of HPV infection and may constitute a previously unrecognized class of viral entry receptors. This research is supported by an NIH R35 award and is conducted through strong collaborations with leading laboratories at Yale University and Harvard University. The successful candidate will receive individualized, mentor-guided training and gain access to emerging concepts, experimental systems, and technologies developed by the laboratory and its collaborators. The candidate will design and conduct studies involving RNA and protein biochemistry, virology, cell biology, and molecular biology.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in RNA biology, cell biology, biochemistry, virology/microbiology, immunology, genetics, biological sciences, or related field.

Nice To Haves

• Highly motivated, creative, collaborative, and intellectually independent, with a strong interest in developing innovative hypotheses and experimental approaches.

Responsibilities

• Experimental design
• Data collection, analysis, and interpretation
• Presentation of findings at institutional, regional, national, and international scientific meetings
• Preparation of manuscripts and grant applications
• Mentoring of graduate students and other junior researchers, as appropriate

What This Job Offers

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