Research Associate in mRNA Vaccine Biochemistry and Immunology

University of Pennsylvania
· Department of Microbiology

Pennsylvania, United States

Penn's Department of Microbiology seeks a Research Associate with postdoctoral experience in mRNA biochemistry, mRNA production, vaccine immunology and mouse models to investigate novel adjuvants for mRNA vaccines. Applications close on 28 October 2027 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

The Research Associate will support a grant-funded programme investigating new adjuvant strategies for mRNA vaccines in mouse models. The position requires technical depth across mRNA biochemistry and production, immunology and in vivo experimental work, with particular attention to measuring vaccine-induced cellular and humoral immune responses. Rather than serving as a generic laboratory support appointment, the role is structured for an experienced postdoctoral researcher who can execute and interpret advanced experiments while expanding research independence.

Penn identifies development opportunities in literature analysis, experimental techniques, manuscript preparation and presentation of findings at national and international meetings. The initial appointment is one year, with continuation and renewal contingent on satisfactory performance and funding and limited to a maximum of three years. The combination of mRNA production, adjuvant evaluation and immune-response measurement makes the opportunity specifically relevant to experimental vaccine development and translational immunology.

Time Commitment Full-time

Duration Initial one-year appointment; renewal based on satisfactory performance and funding, limited to three years

Reference Code Interfolio 176683

Field mRNA Vaccine Biochemistry and Immunology

Specialization Immunology and Microbiology

Organization Type University

PhD degree.

Minimum of three to five years of postdoctoral experience, including experience in mRNA biochemistry, mRNA production, immunology, evaluation of vaccine-induced cellular and humoral responses and work with mice.

• mRNA biochemistry
• mRNA production
• Mouse models
• Vaccine immunology
• Cellular immune-response assessment
• Humoral immune-response assessment
• Adjuvant evaluation

• Scientific writing
• Scientific presentation
• Independent experimental work