Job Description

We are seeking to hire a postdoctoral associate to join our research group in the Laboratory of Michael Farzan. The position is located within the Infectious Disease and Microbiome Program (IDMP) at the Broad Institute, in affiliation with the Division of Infectious Diseases at Boston Children’s Hospital.

In this role, the postdoc will lead the development of a new class of HIV-1 vaccines and the establishment of animal models designed for vaccine evaluation. The candidate should have a strong background in molecular biology and immunology, with knowledge of genome editing methods and expertise in analyzing immune repertoires. They should be motivated to utilize various in vitro and in vivo systems to study vaccine responses.

A successful candidate is expected to excel at critical thinking and be a keen learner for new techniques. Capability in effectively managing projects through collaborative engagement with scientists at all levels is essential. The postdoctoral trainee should be self-motivated and willing to leverage the multidisciplinary network of scientists around them, collaborate on animal studies including those with non-human primates, and engage with fellow group members.

OVERALL RESPONSIBILITY

Perform research utilizing tools and principles of cell and molecular biology to develop vaccines. Make observations, analyze data and interpret results. Explore new biochemical and cell-based assays, methods, and technologies to advance project objectives. Support the overall research goals by participating in different projects, and overseeing normal laboratory operations. Communicate with all levels of staff and external collaborators to ensure that work supports team goals. Provide training for graduate students and technicians. Work on problems in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors. Exercise judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and evaluation criteria for obtaining results.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES (*Essential Functions)

• The overarching goal of the postdoctoral research project is to lead the development of HIV-1 vaccines and the establishment of animal models designed for vaccine evaluation.
• Establish platforms and pipelines for generation and optimization of protein and mRNA vaccines.
• Utilize human samples and animal experiments to evaluate immunogens and immune responses.
• Leverage advanced sequencing technologies to study B cell repertoires in humans and animal models.
• Performs efficient and reproducible analysis, including quality control measures.
• In consultation with the supervisor, implement experiments to address specific questions defined by group projects.
• Make observations, analyze data and interpret results.
• Investigate and develop new methods and technologies for project advancement.
• Generate oral and written reports on performed experiments. Attend team meetings and present the results. May participate in scientific conferences and contribute to scientific journals.
• May contribute to the identification of patentable inventions.
• Consult with literature and scientific staff to maintain professional expertise.
• Work independently on routine work and receive instruction on new assignments.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• PhD in biology, biochemistry, or a closely related field, with solid training in immunological methods.
• Ability to exercise judgment within defined practices and techniques.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to interact with all levels of staff and with external contacts.
• Exceptional organizational and critical thinking skills, lab notebook practices and attention to detail are essential.
• Computational/programming and analytical skills.
• Fast learner and analytical thinker, comfortable taking initiative to learn new skills and drive projects to completion.
• Demonstrated experience in biology and/or genetics, publication in scientific journals, and demonstrated ability to communicate scientific ideas through verbal presentations.
• Motivation to communicate research findings with the broader field through high-quality publications.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

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