Postdoctoral Fellow

Job Description Summary

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.

Entity

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type​

Regular

Cost Center

CC000972 COM DOM Infectious Diseases CC

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

University-00

Pay Range

0.00 - 0.00 - 0.000

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Work Shift

Job Description

Job Duties:

• 35% - 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.
• 35% - 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.
• 25% - Grant Writing: The ideal candidate will be expected to apply for intra- and extramural funding at all stages of their career and assist in writing grants with the PI for laboratory funding.
• 5% - 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.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• 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.

Additional Job Description

Minimum Qualifications: A Ph.D. in immunology, microbiology, or related fields.

Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to climb stairs. (Infrequent) Ability to work indoors. (Continuous) Ability to work in all cold temperature extremes, i.e. spot coolers. (Frequent) Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to perform 'pinching' operations. (Continuous) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Continuous) Ability to fully use both legs. (Continuous) Ability to reach in all directions. (Continuous) Possess good finger dexterity. (Continuous) Ability to maintain tactile sensory functions. (Continuous) Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function. (Continuous) Ability to lift and carry 15 lbs., unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lift objects, up to 15 lbs., from floor level to height of 72 inches, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lower objects, up to 15 lbs., from height of 72 inches to floor level, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to push/pull objects, up to 15 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift and carry objects up to 15 lbs. a distance of five (5) floors and to outlying buildings. (Frequent) Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects close at hand. (Continuous) Ability to see and recognize objects at a distance. (Continuous) Ability to match or discriminate between colors. (Continuous) Ability to determine distance/relationship between objects; depth perception. (Continuous) Good peripheral vision capabilities. (Continuous) Ability to maintain hearing acuity, with correction. (Continuous) Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Continuous) Ability to be qualified physically (by medical personnel) for respirator use, initially and annually. Ability to work alone in isolated areas, such as darkrooms. (Frequent)

Additional New Requirements: Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license. Computer literacy. Ability to work rotating shifts as required. Ability to work overtime as required. Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

If you like working with energetic enthusiastic individuals, you will enjoy your career with us!

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.

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