Postdoctoral Research Associate - Allergy & Immunology

Position Summary

Position Summary A postdoctoral position in the Kau Lab is available for candidates interested in microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, and animal models. We utilize a combination of techniques to investigate how the microbial ecology of the gut, airway, urinary tract, and other mucosal surfaces interact with host factors to influence human health.

• mouse handling
• microbial metagenomic sequencing (including whole genome and RNA sequencing)
• basic microbiology techniques
• molecular cloning
• flow cytometry
• immunofluorescence microscopy
• multi-omics data analysis

Experience with any of these techniques is appreciated, but not required. All applicants with prior lab experience are encouraged to apply.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers on research.
• Assists in the design of research experiments.
• Evaluates research findings and assists in the reporting of the results.
• Maintains conformity with ethical standards in research.
• Maintains compliance with good laboratory practice including the maintenance of adequate research records.
• Engages in open and timely discussion with the mentor regarding the handling or distribution of material, reagents, or records belonging to the laboratory and any proposed disclosure of findings or techniques privately or in publications.
• Collegial conduct towards co-trainees, staff members and members of the research group.
• Adherence to all applicable university policies, procedures and regulations. All data, research records and materials and other intellectual property generated in university laboratories remain the property of the university.

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and provide standard care to research animals.

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in microbiology, computational biology, or a related discipline involving analysis of multi-omics datasets.
• Prior experience with microbiology techniques.
• Familiarity with mouse models and proper mouse handling.
• Skills in at least one programming language (R or Python) are strongly preferred.

Washington University in St. Louis offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to its employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full‑time equivalent workload, and weekly standard hours.

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, citizenship, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.