Postdoctoral Fellow

Position Description:

The Marconi laboratory at Virginia Commonwealth University (Department of Microbiology and Immunology) has openings for several post-doctoral research fellows to conduct research focused on host-pathogen interactions and the molecular pathogenesis of tick-borne infections caused by Borreliella burgdorferi and related species (Lyme disease) and Ehrlichia (Ehrlichiosis). In addition, we have active projects focused on the causative agents of periodontal disease (Treponema denticola and other oral treponemes) and Leptospirosis. Our lab maintains a significant interest in translational research with an emphasis on vaccine and diagnostic assay development. Several projects are up and running that can be taken over by enthusiastic and career-driven post-doctoral fellows. VCU offers an outstanding environment to learn and grow. Our department offers an outstanding intellectual environment with several internationally recognized principal investigators working in similar areas of research.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Conduct independent research on one or more of the subject areas detailed in the position description.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

High-priority candidates will be those with a demonstrated track record of productive research that has culminated in peer-reviewed publications. The ideal candidate will have experience with genetic manipulation techniques (allelic exchange gene replacement), protein production and purification (using HPLC and FPLC), site-directed mutagenesis, common molecular techniques (PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR etc., ), common immunological analyses (immunoblots, ELISAs, generation of hyperimmune serum, etc.,), genome analysis, basic bioinformatics, and work with animal models (mouse-tick model).

Required Qualifications:

PhD. in Microbiology or a related discipline and experience with one or more of the following: genetic manipulation of spirochetes (allelic exchange gene replacement), protein production and purification (using HPLC and FPLC), site-directed mutagenesis, common molecular techniques (PCR, qPCR, RT-PCR etc., ), bioinformatics, common immunological analyses (immunoblots, ELISAs, generation of hyperimmune serum, etc.,) and animal models (mouse-tick model). Viable candidates will display a strong commitment to productivity and career advancement.

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong writing skills and a demonstrated track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals. Two strong letters of reference that speak to motivation and professionalism are required.

Hours/Days:

M-F; standard working hours with occasional nights and weekends as needed to complete ongoing research.

This is a restricted position with no set end date and continued employment is dependent upon project need, availability of funding, and performance.

The School of Medicine continuously strives for our workplace and learning environment to reflect the demographic and social milieu of the communities we serve. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply. SOM demonstrates commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion or a commitment to do so as an employee at VCU.

Salary Range: Determined by NIH guidelines and based on years of post-doctoral experience



Position Details:

Department: SOM- Microbiology and Immunology
Employment Type: PD - Post Doc
Restricted Status: Yes
FTE: 100
Exemption Status: Exempt



Contact Information:

Contact Name: Courtney Wilkins

Contact Email: Courtney.Wilkins@vcuhealth.org