Post-Doc Research Associate - Dr. Sam Lai's lab

Post-Doc Research Associate - Dr. Sam Lai's Lab

Position Summary:

Multiple Postdoctoral Research Associate positions are available in the Lai Lab at the UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy. We seek intellectually curious and highly motivated candidates with a strong record of scientific productivity and innovation. Ideal applicants will have expertise in virology, molecular biology, gene delivery, immune cell therapy, computational modeling, immunology, bioengineering, or closely related disciplines.

The primary focus is to advance in vivo engineering of immune cells for cancer, auto‑immune and/or infectious disease applications, aiming to develop safe and highly efficacious therapies with reduced cost barriers. Applications are welcomed from candidates who can contribute unique expertise to this effort. Candidates are expected to have training in top labs in their fields, multiple first‑author publications, and at least 3 years of training in North America or Europe.

The lab provides salary and research support, with a goal of publishing multiple high‑impact papers and developing translatable innovations during the training period.

Postdoctoral researchers are also expected to mentor graduate and undergraduate students and collaborate with industry partners.

Application Instructions:
When submitting an application, please state in your cover letter why you are interested in this field of research and why you believe you would be a good fit for the Lai Lab.

Ph.D. degree.

• Previous training in top labs in virology, molecular biology, gene delivery, immune cell therapy, computational modeling, immunology, bioengineering, or related disciplines.
• At least 3 years of research experience (graduate training acceptable) in North America or Europe.

• Experience with viral gene delivery, CAR‑T therapies, computational protein modeling and design, directed evolution (Yeast display, phage display).

• Curriculum Vitae / Resume
• Cover Letter
• List of References

• None specified.

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.