Post Doctoral Fellow; Emory Vaccine Center

Post Doctoral Fellow Opportunities at Emory University

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

The laboratory of Dr. Rui Kong within the Emory Vaccine Center at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC) of Emory University in Atlanta, GA, is currently seeking highly motivated Post Doctoral Fellows. Research in our lab focuses on therapeutic monoclonal antibody discovery, vaccine development, and B cell responses. We are interested in the following topics:
1) Discovery of diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic monoclonal antibodies targeting diseases across a broad range of biomedical fields;
2) Vaccine development against HIV-1 and other infectious diseases;
3) B cell immune responses to infection and vaccination;
4) Monoclonal antibody discovery technologies.

Dr. Rui Kong is an Assistant Professor in the Emory Vaccine Center and Emory National Biomedical Research Center, Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, and Georgia Research Alliance Distinguished Investigator. Previous publications from Dr. Rui Kong can be found at the following link.

The Emory Vaccine Center is an epicenter of academic research and development of vaccines for infectious diseases. With more than 250 faculty members and staff, it is the largest and most comprehensive academic vaccine research center in the world. The qualified candidate will work in a collaborative environment that is rich in resources, alongside investigators, graduate students, technical staff, and postdoctoral fellows conducting fundamental, basic, and clinical research leading to the development of effective vaccines against diseases of global importance.

Candidates with backgrounds in immunology, virology, structural biology, bioinformatics, molecular biology, and animal models are highly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities:

• Helps design and conduct research within a specified field while receiving advanced training from a designated Principal Investigator to enhance professional skills and research independence needed for pursuit of a career.
• The specific area of research in which the trainee is mentored is determined by the department and laboratory of the Postdoc.
• Designs and evaluates experiments. Develops new ideas that promote current research.
• Prepares and publishes scientific manuscripts under the direction of the Principal Investigator.
• May be responsible for operation of specific equipment.
• May teach techniques to others, train, and supervise research staff.
• Positions are temporary appointments as a research trainee.
• The initial appointment is for one year, renewal expected if progress is satisfactory and funds are available.
• Appointments cannot exceed five years.

Minimum Qualifications:

• A doctoral degree or equivalent (Ph.D., M.D., ScD., D.V.M., DDS etc) in an appropriate field.
• Excellent scientific writing ability and strong oral communication skills.
• The ability to work effectively and collegially with colleagues.
• Additional qualifications as specified by the Principal Investigator.

Preferred/Desired

Qualifications:

• Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills

Working Environment:

• Work environment involves working with biohazardous blood and tissues
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions
• Work is normally performed in a typical laboratory environment
• Requires the ability to bend, kneel, and/or squat

Pre-Employment Screening Statement:

The Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects.

Note:

Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location. Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary…