RESEARCH SCHOLAR

School of Medicine

Established in 1930, Duke University School of Medicine is the youngest of the nation's top medical schools. Ranked sixth among medical schools in the nation, the School takes pride in being an inclusive community of outstanding learners, investigators, clinicians, and staff where interdisciplinary collaboration is embraced and great ideas accelerate translation of fundamental scientific discoveries to improve human health locally and around the globe. Composed of more than 2,600 faculty physicians and researchers, nearly 2,000 students, and more than 6,200 staff, the Duke University School of Medicine along with the Duke University School of Nursing, and Duke University Health System comprise Duke Health, a world-class academic medical center. The Health System encompasses Duke University Hospital, Duke Regional Hospital, Duke Raleigh Hospital, Duke Health Integrated Practice, Duke Primary Care, Duke Home Care and Hospice, Duke Health and Wellness, and multiple affiliations.

100% Grant Funded Research Scholar in Influenza Virus Pathogenesis. Position is for one year with extensions contingent on continued funding, performance, and needs of the lab. Screening of applications continues until the position is filled.

 

The Heaton Laboratory has an opening for an onsite Research Scholar at the Duke University School of Medicine. We are seeking a motivated person to research the mechanisms of, and interventions for, influenza virus disease using high-throughput genomic screening approaches, primary cell culture systems, and animal models of influenza disease. For more information visit https://mgm.duke.edu/faculty-and-research/primary-faculty/nicholas-heaton-phd/

 

REQUIRED EXPERTISE AND TECHINAL SKILLS:

•         Extensive Experience with In Vivo Models: Proven expertise in conducting and analyzing in vivo experimentation, particularly using mouse models to study influenza virus pathogenesis.

•         High-Containment Laboratory Proficiency: Certification and substantial hands-on experience working in BSL3 and ABSL3 environments, including experimental design, execution, and oversight of safety and compliance protocols.

•         Project and Personnel Management: Demonstrated ability to lead research teams, supervise lab staff, coordinate experimental goals, and mentor junior researchers.

•         Scientific Communication and Grant Writing: Strong skills in data interpretation, manuscript preparation, and experience contributing to or leading grant application development.

•         Regulatory Compliance and Protocol Development: Deep understanding of lab safety regulations, with experience in writing and managing SOPs, animal protocols, and ensuring compliance with institutional and federal guidelines.

 

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

Related Ph.D. with at least 3 years relevant postdoctoral research experience.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

You will play a critical leadership role in the Heaton Laboratory, contributing to both the strategic direction and day-to-day operations of ongoing research. Specific responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

•         Experimental Research: Independently design and perform complex experiments, including data analysis, interpretation, and the preparation of presentations, reports, and peer-reviewed manuscripts.

•         Team Leadership and Project Management: Lead and manage research teams, including supervision of laboratory technicians and coordination of experimental goals and schedules. Oversee the collection, analysis, and documentation of data generated by team members. Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to junior personnel on laboratory techniques, protocols, and best practices. Review, edit, and manage manuscript preparation. Proactively identify and resolve issues in experimental execution or data integrity.

•         BSL3/ABSL3 Biocontainment Oper