Postdoctoral Research Associate- Joshi

Position Information

Classification Title Post-Doctoral Associate AD FLSA Exempt UGA Job Code FTE 1.0

Minimum Qualifications Position Summary

The College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Georgia is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position within the Precision One Health Initiative. We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral associate to work on highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) vaccine related projects. This position is focused on the development of vectored vaccines and replicon vaccines against HPAIV. The successful candidate will develop recombinant viral vectors and conduct vaccine efficacy trials in animal models.

Our laboratory utilizes adeno-associated virus (AAV) for antibody delivery, and the candidate will have the opportunity to gain experience on AAV-mediated gene delivery. The efficacy of vaccine and antibody delivery platforms will be evaluated multiple animal models including, mice, chickens and cattle. The candidate will develop recombinant viruses expressing HPAI antigens, perform in vitro characterization of recombinant vectors and evaluate the immunogenicity and protective efficacy of vaccine candidates.

The project will be conducted in collaboration with the USDA Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory (SEPRL). The candidate will have the opportunity to work with interdisciplinary teams at the UGA and SEPRL.

The candidate will generate recombinant viral vectors expressing influenza antigens, perform cell culture and virus culture, conduct advanced virological and immunological assays, prepare libraries for next-generation sequencing and conduct animal experiments in BSL-2 and BSL-3 containment facilities. The candidate will analyze and interpret data, including next-generation sequencing data, present finding at conferences, and prepare manuscripts for publication. The candidate is also expected to mentor graduate and undergraduate laboratory members.

This position offers an excellent opportunity for a dedicated postdoctoral researcher to advance their skills in virology, immunology and vaccine development. The fellow will work closely with Dr. Joshi and collaborators at the USDA. The position provides a collaborative research environment and training to support career transitions into biotech industry or the development of independent research career in academia. The candidate will also have to opportunity to contribute to grant applications.

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, Certification in Position

Applicants must have a PhD in Virology or a related area of biomedical sciences and are expected to have training in molecular cloning and virus culture, as well as prior experience working with animal models. They should have proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (Graph Pad Prism, RStudio).

Experience with flow-cytometry and next-generation sequencing data analysis is preferred. Previous experience working in a BSL-3 lab is desirable. Candidates are expected to work both independently and collaboratively and should be willing to mentor junior laboratory members.

Citizenship is required due to federal security requirements for conducting research at the USDA facility.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies Physical Demands Is this a Position of Trust? Yes Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No Does this position require a P-Card? No Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No Is driving a requirement of this position? No Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?

No Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications) Yes Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference…