Postdoctoral Fellow

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to support the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Host Defense in the Department of Pediatrics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) in Bethesda, Maryland. Required qualifications include a Ph.D. at the time of appointment in immunology, microbiology, biochemistry, biotechnology, or a related field. The research project will focus on the T cell response to current and emerging respiratory virus in human and animal models using single cell sequencing and flow cytometry. Successful applicants enjoy team work to accomplish research objectives as we have multiple lab members and collaborate with other research programs. The applicant must be an independent thinker, have good problem-solving skills, excellent communication skills and a strong work ethic. Preference will be given to researchers with experience in adaptive immune response analyses, the study of infectious diseases and/or molecular biotechnology. In particular, knowledge of T cell biology, RNA sequencing and sequencing data analysis is necessary.

Experience and understanding of immunologic methods should include, but is not limited to cell culture of primary immune cells, PCR, analysis of RNA-seq data, immunohistochemistry, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry and experience working with animal models. To apply, submit curriculum vitae, cover letter, and the names and contact information for three professional references.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

This position will be in support of Department of Pediatrics to support the Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Host Defense located in Bethesda, MD.

• Assists in designing, developing, executing, and implementing scientific research and/or development.
• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories to potential inventions and products.
• Performs specialized laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which involves specialized procedures.
• Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments.
• Assists with the preparation of data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals.
• 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.
• Performs and designs original laboratory research projects consistent with the laboratory mission,
  including collection and organization of data. Makes detailed observations about experiments.
• Prepares technical reports, summaries, and protocols.
• Formulates experimental hypotheses and designs experimental protocols
• Plans, conducts and completes investigations under the supervision of the head of the laboratory
• Maintains clear and accurate laboratory records, inventories and logbooks.
• Performs data entry for research projects and maintains databases.
• Participates in meetings regarding experimental design and development.
• Presents scientific findings in oral and written format; writes technical reports and scientific papers for
  peer reviewed journals. Preparation of grants/contracts and proposals is also required.
• Assists the principal investigator to provide experimental and technical supervision of one or more
  technician, graduate student and/or clinical fellows.
• Maintains supplies in the laboratory and keeps the laboratory area clean.
• Ensuring systems are in place for efficient planning of lab supplies, records and document management
  as well as experimental protocols and data, and coordination of good lab practices and lab safety.

Education and Experience

• Doctoral degree. Preference for degrees in Immunology, Virology, Bioinformatics, or related fields.
• Minimum of 0-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• A strong understanding of antigen presenting cells and T cell biology; experience with animal models, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy, primary cell culture, PCR, RNA-seq analysis, and flow cytometry, ability to communicate scientific findings in written and oral format, excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of appropriate scientific area; ability to analyze and interpret data
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 Public Trust/CAC.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The annual salary range for this position is $$50,100.00-$80,000.00. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans ,and more.

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

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, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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