Job Description

Organization

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Rocky Mountain Labs, Hamilton, MT

Scientific focus area

Stem Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Virology

A postdoctoral position on the pathogenesis of emerging respiratory viruses is available in the Molecular Pathogenesis Section, headed by Dr. Emmie de Wit.

About the position

The Molecular Pathogenesis Section in the Laboratory of Virology within NIAID is recruiting for a postdoctoral IRTA position on the pathogenesis of emerging respiratory viruses. The position is located at NIAID’s Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, Montana. The laboratory studies high- and maximum-containment RNA viruses that cause severe lower respiratory tract disease, including coronaviruses, Nipah virus, and influenza A virus. https://www.niaid.nih.gov/research/emmie-de-wit

The laboratory is interested in the pathogenesis of emerging respiratory viruses on every level, from host to molecule. The laboratory uses an experimental approach to increase our understanding of the disease induced by emerging respiratory viruses in the upper and lower respiratory tract, as well as in the central nervous system. Fundamental experimental approaches of the laboratory include molecular and cell-based techniques, including in human organoid cultures and a variety of animal models. Studies are carried out in biosafety level (BSL)-2, BSL-3, and BSL-4 laboratories.

Two projects are available: one studying the damage of respiratory viruses to the alveolar epithelium and how this affects disease severity, and one focusing on the role of the upper respiratory tract as a barrier to infection of the lower respiratory tract and as a facilitator of transmission. These projects rely on the establishment of human organoid cultures and optimization of these cultures to suit our research questions. Studies in organoid cultures will be supplemented with studies in animal models. Applicants will be assigned to one of the projects. Successful applicants will be part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team focused on experimental approaches to important questions in the pathogenesis of emerging respiratory viruses in humans.

Apply for this vacancy

What you’ll need to apply

Please provide a CV, a cover letter describing your interest in the position, and 3 letters of reference to Laura Kendl via email: laura.kendl@nih.gov.

Contact name

Laura Kendl

Contact email

laura.kendl@nih.gov

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in virology, molecular biology, or another appropriate discipline with less than two years of postdoctoral experience
• Strong background in virology, stem cell biology, molecular biology, computational biology, and/or immunology
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment
• Experience working in high-containment virology and working with organoids and animal models would be considered an advantage.

Disclaimer/Fine Print

The position is contingent upon the ability of candidates to meet all criteria necessary to work in BSL4, including a background check and medical qualifications.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.