POSTDOCTORAL ASSOCIATE

The Smith Laboratory of Host-Pathogen Genetic Interactions seeks a Postdoctoral Research fellow to join our team in the Molecular Genetics and Microbiology department at Duke University. 

Our lab studies the host and bacterial determinants underlying the variable outcomes of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. We leverage genetically diverse mice in conjunction with bacterial genetic technologies to understand the host-pathogen genetics interactions that drive distinct tuberculosis disease states.

We seek a post doc with either a strong mammalian genetics background that wants to learn cutting-edge bacterial genetics approaches and novel disease phenotypes OR a bacterial geneticist that is interested in applying their bacterial expertise to novel mouse models of tuberculosis disease and vaccine efficacy. Specific research projects will be determined in conjunction with Dr. Clare Smith and will be shaped by the skills and interests of the selected finalist. Position will be one year to start with extensions contingent on performance, funding, and needs of the lab.

The applicant must have (or have completed the requirements for) a PhD in the area of microbiology OR immunology OR mammalian genetics, or a related field. Strong quantitative and communication skills are required. The applicant is expected to design and conduct experiments independently and clearly document results for use in presentations, manuscripts and grants. Experience working with animals, R markdowns or next generation sequencing and analysis is desirable but not required. 

Why join us?

-We are an enthusiastic, highly collaborative new lab that leverages both mammalian and bacterial genetics combined with systems immunological approaches to tackle biological questions related to infectious disease susceptibility.

-You will develop a mentoring committee that will allow you to take advantage of senior genetics and pathogenesis expertise across the MGM department and the broader mammalian and bacterial genetics communities.

Desired Qualifications

Experience in mammalian or bacterial genetics, sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, immunology, animal models of bacterial infection and molecular biology. 

Interested applicants should apply online complete with a curriculum vitae and a cover letter explaining your scientific interests, your specific interest in our work, and career goals, along with names and contact information of three references.

Further information about ongoing projects in the lab can be found at: https://sites.duke.edu/smithlab/

DEFINITION: The Postdoctoral Appointee holds a PhD or equivalent doctorate (e.g. ScD, MD, DVM). Candidates with non-US degrees may be required to provide proof of degree equivalency. 1. A candidate may also be appointed to a postdoctoral position if the candidate has completed all of the requirements for a degree but the degree has not been formally conferred: in this case, the candidate may present evidence of completion of the degree requirements, together with a statement documenting the date on which the degree is to be conferred. If the degree is not conferred by this projected date, the postdoctoral appointment may be terminated. 2. Note for international candidates: Generally, immigration classifications (e.g., H-1B, J-1, etc.) require that the requisite degree be conferred before a petition can be filed or a visa document issued to sponsor the individual. The term of the appointment is limited (see Section 5 of the Postdoc Policy for length of appointment). The appointment involves substantially full-time research or scholarship, and may include teaching responsibilities. The appointment is generally preparatory for a full time academic or research career. The appointment is not part of a clinical training program, unless research training under the supervision of a senior mentor is the primary purpose of the appointment. The Postdoctoral Appointee functions under the supervision of a mentor or a department at Duke University. The Postdoctoral Appointee is expected to publish the results of his or her research or scholarship during the period of the appointment. EXPECTATION: The conscientious discharge of research or scholarship responsibilities, which may include teaching responsibilities for Postdoctoral Associates Conformance to standards of responsible conduct in research Compliance with good scholarly and research practice Maintenance of a laboratory notebook and/or other comparable records of research activity, which remains the property of Duke University upon termination. Adherence to University standards regarding use of isotopes, chemicals, infectious agents, animals, human subjects, and the like. Open and timely discussion with the mentor regarding all facets of the Postdoctoral Appointee's research activities. Postdoctoral Appointees are encouraged to consult the AAMC Compact Between Postdoctoral Appointees and Their Mentors for suggested guidelines for the Postdoctoral Appointee-mentor relationship Prompt disclosure to the mentor regarding the possession and desire to distribute materials, reagents, software, copyrightable and potentially patentable discoveries derived from the Postdoctoral Appointee's research. Collegial conduct towards members of the research group and others as described in the Duke University School of Medicine Honor Code of Professional Conduct and other relevant conduct policies pertaining to other schools at Duke University. Compliance with all applicable University and departmental policies and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

Education

See job description for education requirements.

Experience

See job description for requirements.

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