Postdoctoral Fellow - Xian Lab - Immunology

Postdoctoral Fellow - Xian Lab - Immunology

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is the largest blood-focused research institute in the United States. With over 30 basic, translational, and clinical investigators, the institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative therapies related to blood and blood disorders.

The institute's research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including transfusion medicine, cellular therapy, thrombosis/hemostasis, immunology, and hematologic malignancies. As a vital part of Versiti, a non-profit organization with a blood bank at its core, the VBRI strives to improve lives through innovative research and the development of novel diagnostics and treatments.

The Xian lab’s long-term goal is to enhance immune therapies by uncovering how mitochondrial stress activates the immune system. We focus on how mitochondria-released danger signals—known as danger-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs)—shape immunity. In particular, we study circulating oxidized mitochondrial DNA (Ox-mtDNA), that rises with aging and correlates with autoimmune, metabolic, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Our Recent Work Revealed That Ox-mtDNA Controls The Transition From Inflammation To Autoimmunity, Through Direct Communication Between Plasmacytoid Dendritic Cells (pDCs) And T Follicular Helper (Tfh) Cells. This Finding Opens Two Central Questions For Our Lab

• Do pDCs present self-antigens to activate Tfh cells in autoimmune disease?
• Are Tfh cells pathogenic in aging and neurodegenerative conditions where circulating Ox-mtDNA is elevated?

To address these questions, we combine human and mouse models with approaches in immunology, molecular genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and bioinformatics
. Through this integrated strategy, we will define the molecular mechanisms of immune pathogenesis and ultimately develop new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for autoimmunity, neurodegeneration and cancer.

Responsibilities

• Works with Principal Investigator to develop a research project.
• Executes laboratory experiments specific to aims of research.
• Troubleshoots assays and customizes experimental tools to answer research questions.
• Coordinates external and internal resources necessary for completion of research plan.
• Provides direction to Technologists and Trainees.
• Generates clear and complete records of experimental work.
• Communicates results of research at meetings.
• Participates in publication and presentation of research.

Qualifications

• PhD required
• 0 – 6 years of postdoctoral training required
• Demonstrated ability to independently apply understanding of scientific theory to the structure and execution of research experiments.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and explain the theoretical basis of the work performed.
• Ability to perform research procedures independently.
• Immediate proficiency in basic and sophisticated experimental tests and procedures.
• Exceptional organizational skills.
• Strong detail orientation and analytical ability.
• Excellent problem solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks and meet deadlines.
• Computer literate with an emphasis on graphics, graphing, data management, and statistical applications