Post Doctoral Fellow

JOB TITLE

Post Doctoral Fellow

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Biology & Biotechnology - NFR JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Bourgeois Lab at Worcester Polytechnic Institute is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to work towards identifying genetic risk factors of severe and post-treatment Lyme disease-caused by B. burgdorferi infection. The project leverages single-cell RNA sequencing, DNA sequencing, cell culture, and clinical data to gain mechanistic insight into why Lyme disease outcomes are variable. As a result, this position involves a mix of computational and experimental tasks.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities:

• Perform cell culture in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) laboratory to probe how primary and immortalized human cells respond to Borrelia burgdorferi. Maintain clear electronic laboratory notebook describing experimental techniques performed in the lab.
• Leverage bioinformatic skills to analyze transcriptomic data, collect and organize human whole-genome sequencing data, and perform GWAS analyses. Keep robust notes on how the code works and key considerations for repeating the analyses.
• Independently read primary literature to remain current on new advances in bioinformatic tools and pipelines, as well as relevant findings in B. burgdorferi host-pathogen interactions.
• Collaborate with other researchers in the lab and across WPI. Train undergraduate and graduate students in the laboratory.
• Present data and findings to the field through oral presentations and written manuscripts.
• Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor.

Job Qualifications:

• PhD in molecular biology, immunology, genetics/genomics, microbiology, or comparable field
• Robust publication record demonstrating expertise in cell culture, host-pathogen interactions, and bioinformatics
• Demonstrable ability to write clearly and concisely
• Specific expertise in performing GWAS analyses is preferred, but not necessary

To learn more about the Bourgeois Lab, please see: bourgeoislabworcester.wordpress.com.

To Apply:

Please include (1) A brief cover letter describing your past research experiences and goals for postdoctoral training, (2) A curriculum vitae (CV), and (3) Information for three references with your application.

Questions can be sent to jbourgeois@wpi.edu.

Compensation:

Annual salary up to $63,900. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity.

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Exempt)