Postdoctoral Fellow (COVID-19) - Pediatrics

Join the HJF Team !

HJF is seeking a highly-motivated Postdoctoral Fellow (COVID-19) to support vaccine design and identification of therapeutic targets for respiratory viral infections related to COVID-19 research in the Department of Pediatrics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) in Bethesda, MD. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to the Pediatric Department.

The Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Host Defense, headed by Dr. Allison Malloy, is focused on defining mucosal immune responses in the lung against respiratory pathogens. The goals of the research program are to define innate and adaptive immune responses that can be targeted for immunomodulation and vaccine design. Respiratory pathogens currently under investigation in the Malloy laboratory include respiratory syncytial virus, influenza virus, and SARS-CoV-2. Through innovative flow cytometric techniques and technology, as well as transcriptomic analysis in murine models and human systems, we seek to discover the mechanisms used by antigen presenting cells to influence adaptive immunity and T cell subset differentiation with in the respiratory mucosal system.

We are looking for a highly motivated researcher to explore interactions between the mucosal immune system and pathogens. The successful candidate will have expertise in dendritic cell engagement of T cells and the host-microbe interactions. Experience in immunology, virology, molecular biology, transcriptomics, and data analysis is preferred. The successful applicant will also have excellent oral and written communication skills and collaborative abilities, as we work with collaborators at NIH, which is across the street, the FDA, and the Naval Military Research Center. A PhD or MD/PhD is required.

NOTE: All HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

Responsibilities:

1. Assists in designing, developing, executing, and implementing scientific research and/or development. (30%)
2. Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories to potential inventions and products. (15%)
3. Performs specialized laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which involves specialized procedures. (17%)
4. Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments. (15%)
5. Assists with the preparation of data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals. (20%)
6. May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role. (3%)

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Expertise in dendritic cell and T cell biology as well as host-microbe interactions.
• Experience in immunology, virology, molecular biology, flow cytometry and transcriptomics.
• Excellent oral and written skills as well as collaborative abilities.
• Experience in innate immunity, antigen presenting cells, and mucosal immunology preferred.

Minimum Education: Doctoral degree in immunology, virology, biology, or related degree is required.

Minimum Experience/ Training Requirements: Minimum 0-5 years of relevant work experience is required. Experimental mice or rodent model experience is required. Flow cytometry experience is preferred.

Work Arrangement: 100% on-site.

Background/Security: Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Tier I investigation/Public Trust and a Common Access Card (CAC).

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, addresses, education, and credentials, a criminal background check, drug screening, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check.

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.