Post Doctoral Associate

A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics (MMG) at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. The laboratory studies antiretroviral therapeutics used for HIV-1 prevention and suppression, including understanding virus-host protein interactions that can be exploited as novel drug targets, and the impact of drug resistance on HIV-1 transmission, prevention, and treatment. Recently our studies have expanded to SARS-CoV-2 replication biology.

Project Overview

The goal of this NIH-funded project is to understand the role of host proteins during SARS-CoV-2 RNA synthesis and trafficking in infected epithelial cell lines and primary epithelial cells, using molecular and cellular virology assays and confocal and super-resolution microscopy. The postdoctoral fellow will also work closely with collaborators to perform correlative light-electron microscopy. Improved understanding of SARS-CoV-2 infection may lead to more effective COVID-19 therapies and could prepare us for preventing or treating new coronaviruses that arise in the future. The successful applicant will be encouraged to present their research at local and international conferences and apply for research grants (e.g., T32, F32, K01/K99, or foundation award).

Qualifications

We are looking for a highly motivated, enthusiastic, independent, and collaborative scientist with a PhD (or equivalent) in virology or cell biology. The applicant should have experience in cell culture, molecular biology (e.g., mutagenesis, cloning, qPCR), and confocal microscopy. Ideally, the applicant will also have experience working with BSL-2+ or BSL-3 pathogens. The applicant should have excellent organizational skills and effective communication skills.

Who We Are

The laboratory consists of a collaborative, diverse, and inclusive group of scientists who are excited about virology with a common goal of finding better prevention and treatments for HIV/AIDS and SARS-CoV-2/COVID-19. We value working together to perform high-quality research and to mentor the next generation of researchers. The laboratory is a member of the Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh Center for HIV Protein Interactions, Center for Evolutionary Biology and Medicine, and Hillman Cancer Virology Program. The Department of MMG has deep roots in microbiology, virology, biochemistry, and genetics research, addressing some of the most important questions in biomedical research. The Pitt School of Medicine ranks in the top 15 U.S. medical schools for research and the city of Pittsburgh has repeatedly been ranked among the nation’s most livable cities. The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equity of opportunity, human dignity and diversity, EOE including disability/vets.

Website: https://ambrose-lab.com/

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.