Postdoctoral Associate - Keeler Lab

Classification Title:

Postdoctoral Associate - Keeler Lab

Classification Minimum Requirements:

• PhD degree (within 2 years) or be in the process of completing a PhD in biological sciences (e.g., molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, Immunology, or related fields)

Job Description:

A postdoctoral associate position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Geoffrey Keeler. The project focuses on development of novel immunotherapies to treat autoimmune disease, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis. We are particularly interested in developing new AAV vectors to establish immune tolerance and treat disease at reduced doses, understanding the mechanisms driving immune tolerance following AAV liver-directed gene therapy, and evaluating the immune responses associated with AAV administration. The work relies heavily on the use of animal models for MS and mammalian cell culture.
The ideal candidate is expected to be highly motivated with a strong work ethic and demonstrated creativity with prior publications.

Duties:
• Design and develop research projects with the Principal Investigator
• Lead independent research projects simultaneously alongside collaborative projects with other team members
• Conduct experiments using a variety of techniques including molecular cloning, DNA mutagenesis, vector production, qPCR, RT-qPCR, Southern and Western blotting, FACS, tissue cultures, and animal experiments, etc.
• Perform data collection and analysis
• Test, optimize, troubleshoot new and existing methods and techniques, and update protocols
• Prepare and maintain biological stocks
• Maintain proper lab and experimental records, both digital and hard copy
• Guide and train undergraduate and graduate student researchers
• Prepare scientific results for publication in peer-reviewed journals and grant applications
• Maintain laboratory equipment and order supplies as needed
• Present results at internal and external meetings and scientific conferences

Expected Salary:

$63,480 annually

Required Qualifications:

• Two first-author peer-reviewed publications in English language journals
• Experience in mammalian cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques including cloning, qPCR, RT-qPCR, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and Western blotting (experience with a JESS is desirable)
• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, GraphPad, Photoshop, SnapGene, etc

Preferred:

• Experience in virology, AAV vectorology
• Experience in EAE model
• Experience with handling laboratory animals

Special Instructions to Applicants:

In order to be considered, you must upload your cover letter and resume.

The Search Committee will accept applications until the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the committee.

Final candidate will be required to provide an official transcript to the hiring department upon hire. A transcript will not be considered "official" if a designation of "Issued to Student" is visible. Degrees earned from an institution outside the U.S. must be evaluated by a credentialing service approved by National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES): http://naces.org/.

Health Assessment Required: Yes