Assistant Professor, Surgical Sciences - Transplant Immunology

Job Title: Assistant Professor in Transplant Immunology (non-tenure)

Position Overview: The Surgical Sciences Division of the Department of Surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Assistant Professor to join our research team. The position will focus on investigating the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in ischemia re-perfusion injury in lung transplantation, and the impact of early injuries on fibrosis and long-term transplant outcomes. This position provides an excellent opportunity for an early-career scientist to work with leading experts in the field, including Dr. Christine Lau, MD, Chair of the Department of Surgery, and Dr. Valeria Mas, MSc, PhD FAST, Chair of the Surgical Sciences Division. The successful candidate will be expected to lead independent research projects, participate in collaborative initiatives, mentor trainees, and contribute to the academic mission of the Department.

Key Responsibilities

Lead Molecular and Cellular Research:

Design and conduct experiments to explore pathways involved in fibrosis progression in transplant kidneys and ischemia reperfusion injury in lung transplantation.

Study the effects of early injury on fibrosis development, long-term outcomes, and the achievement of tolerance in transplant settings.

Experimental Techniques:

Perform RNA, DNA, and protein extraction, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence.

Utilize advanced microscopy techniques for cellular analysis, including high-resolution and live-cell imaging.

Perform single-cell RNA sequencing, snRNAseq, snATAC-seq, and spatial transcriptomics, including epigenetic analyses such as DNA methylation and small noncoding RNA profiling.

Cell Culture & Gene Editing:

Cultivate and maintain cell cultures and co-cultures for validation experiments.

Apply flow cytometry, siRNA transcription factor knockdown, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to study gene function and pathways.

Data Analysis and Interpretation:

Analyze complex datasets involving gene expression (bulk and single-cell), protein expression, and cellular interactions using bioinformatics tools.

Develop and optimize experimental protocols to improve data quality and reproducibility.

Collaboration and Mentoring:

Collaborate with other researchers within the Surgical Sciences Division and across departments.

Mentor graduate students, postdocs, and technical staff in experimental techniques and research methodologies.

Research Dissemination:

Present findings at internal meetings, external conferences, and seminars.

Write and contribute to manuscripts for publication in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.

Grant Writing:

Write and submit competitive grant proposals to secure independent research funding.

Actively seek funding from national and international agencies to support research projects.

Qualifications :

Required Expertise and Qualifications

Educational Background:

Ph.D. in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, or related fields. Postdoctoral experience is required.

Technical Skills:

Expertise in molecular biology techniques, including RNA and protein extraction, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence.

Experience with advanced microscopy, single-cell RNA sequencing, epigenetic analyses, and CRISPR gene editing.

Familiarity with flow cytometry and bioinformatics tools for data analysis (e.g., R, Python, Seurat).

Research Focus:

Knowledge of transplant immunology, fibrosis, ischemia reperfusion injury, and cellular responses to injury in transplant models.

Writing and Communication:

Strong publication record and the ability to communicate scientific findings effectively at conferences and in peer-reviewed journals.

Experience in writing successful research grant applications is an asset.

Expectations

Independent Research: The successful candidate will be expected to lead independent research efforts, contributing to groundbreaking studies on transplant immunology and fibrosis.

Collaboration: The candidate will work closely with Dr. Lau and Dr. Mas and collaborate with researchers across the Surgical Sciences Division, the Department of Surgery, and other related departments.

Mentorship: The candidate will mentor students, postdocs, and junior researchers, and be an active participant in the academic development of the lab.

Grant Writing: The candidate is expected to write and secure competitive research funding. The institution will provide mentorship and guidance in grant writing to help achieve this goal.

Faculty Mentoring Committee: A Faculty Mentoring Committee will be established to evaluate progress, offer advice, and ensure the successful development of the Assistant Professor in this role.

Meetings and Support: Weekly lab meetings and one-on-one meetings with Dr. Lau and Dr. Mas will be held to provide ongoing guidance, support, and mentorship to ensure the success of the candidate's research program.

Additional Information

This position offers the opportunity to join a world-class institution with a collaborative and supportive research environment.

The candidate will have access to cutting-edge research facilities and resources in the Department of Surgery and the broader University of Maryland School of Medicine.

Application Instructions: Please submit a cover letter, CV, research statement, and contact information for three references who can speak to your qualifications and potential. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

The University of Maryland School of Medicine is an equal-opportunity employer, committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences.