Staff Scientist - Infectious Diseases
About The Position
Our laboratory investigates the HIV host–pathogen interface with the goal of identifying mechanisms that enable the immune system to control and ultimately eliminate persistent infection. We focus on defining host pathways that can be therapeutically leveraged to target the HIV reservoir. Our work integrates molecular virology, primary human cell systems, and in vivo models. We routinely work with ex vivo primary cells and patient-derived specimens and employ humanized mouse models to enable mechanistic studies and forward genetic approaches. These platforms allow us to move efficiently from mechanistic discovery toward translational strategies aimed at developing new therapeutic interventions. Scientists in the laboratory are encouraged to pursue projects that bridge fundamental virology, immunology, and translational investigation. The laboratory environment emphasizes collaboration, rigorous experimentation, and publication of impactful work. Candidates with strong experimental skills, intellectual curiosity, and an interest in translational immunology and virology are particularly encouraged to apply. Designs research protocols. Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis and documentation of experiment results.
Requirements
- Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
- Laboratory Operations (3 Years)
- Analytical Problem Solving
- Communication
- Computer Literacy
- Data Analysis
- Data Interpretations
Nice To Haves
- Molecular cloning and standard molecular biology techniques.
- Mammalian cell culture, particularly work with primary human cells in addition to established cell lines.
- HIV laboratory research or related virology.
- Mouse models, including tissue harvesting and in vivo experimental work.
- CRISPR-based genetic perturbation approaches.
- Ph.D. - Doctor of Philosophy
Responsibilities
- Following instructions and discussions with the principal investigator, designs research protocols, including developing procedures for the collection, verification and management of data.
- Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
- Performs complex statistical analysis of data collected and writes interpretative reports.
- Verifies the correctness of the data submitted and makes recommendations based on these analyses.
- Documents research topics and prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
- Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects.
- Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
- Conducts literature searches related to research project.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
- Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
- Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
- WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
- Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!
- We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We’ve got you covered.
- WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
