Research Associate

The faculty in MBM are united by a common interest in the biology of microbes (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) and the effects of microbes on human and animal hosts. The microbial pathogens program studies microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, with emphasis on rigorous analysis of these pathogens and the immune responses that restrict them. Program investigators direct detailed studies of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, fungi and eukaryotic parasites. Research topics include structural analysis of virus entry, viral evolution, viral oncogenes, intracellular bacterial pathogens, microorganisms that cause diarrhea and pneumonia, intracellular signaling, pathogen adhesion, genetic determinants involved in susceptibility to infection, vaccine development, and identification of novel antimicrobial agents.

The main responsibility of the Research Associate will be to conduct primary research on the major bacterial pathogen Clostridioides difficile, particularly in the epidemic strain R20291. The research will be focused on understanding the mechanisms that determine virulence and colonization efficiency of RT027 strains in particular using a combination of genetics, animal models, imaging during infection of the gut, diet modification, and transcriptional reporter analyses. In addition to the main focus of the Research Associate on research, about 20% of their time will be spent on writing manuscripts and preparing oral presentations to disseminate their research findings.

The Research Associate will also be responsible for writing grant applications to obtain funding for their research and mentoring rotation students, post-baccalaureate students, or undergraduates. They will also spend a portion of their time applying for faculty positions and other career development activities.

Basic Requirements:

• Ph.D. in science and 4-5 years of related laboratory experience
• Research experience
• Presentation of research (writing manuscripts, oral presentations, grant writing)
• Career Development (applying for faculty positions, mentor trainings, mentoring students etc.)
• Grant application writing experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Consistent attention to detail and excellent organizational and communication skills are critical.
• Knowledge of MS Office products, statistical/quantitative analysis, and computation is necessary.