Postdoctoral Researcher - Pediatric Infectious Diseases

Summary As a Postdoctoral Researcher, and according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) and the National Science Foundation (NSF), a postdoc is an individual who has received a doctoral degree (or equivalent) and is engaged in a temporary and defined period of mentored advanced research training to enhance the professional skills and research independence needed to pursue his or her chosen career path.

In addition, according to the National Postdoc Association (NPA), Postdoctoral appointees can pursue basic, clinical or translational projects so long as their primary effort is devoted toward their own scholarship. Postdocs are essential to the scholarly mission of the mentor and host institution, and thus are expected to have the freedom to publish the results of their scholarship.

Primary Responsibilities Plan, design, and execute complex research studies, procedures, and protocols.

Lead and manage assigned discovery and research projects, coordinating all study activities.

Organize, synthesize, and analyze research data; interpret and evaluate results.

Prepare and present scientific reports, findings, and manuscripts.

Collaborate with the principal investigator and research staff to develop methodologies and refine lab procedures.

Maintain lab supplies, negotiate with vendors as needed, and track purchase orders.

Provide training, daily direction, and mentorship to laboratory personnel; delegate tasks and establish priorities.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge – Skills – Abilities Core Scientific Knowledge:

Biology, chemistry, mathematics and statistics.

Laboratory and Technical

Skills:

Molecular biology techniques (e.g., nucleic acid extraction, PCR/qPCR, RT-PCR, cloning, sequencing)
Mammalian cell culture (primary cells and continuous lines); aseptic technique

Virological assays (viral propagation, titration such as plaque assays or TCID
50, neutralization assays)
Immunological methods (ELISA, Western blotting, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence microscopy)
Basic bioinformatics and data analysis (e.g., R, Python, Graph Pad)
Research and Analytical Abilities:

Experimental design and troubleshooting

Complex problem solving and critical thinking

Data interpretation and utilization

Knowledge of biosafety regulations and adherence to BSL-2/BSL-3 protocols

Documentation, records management, and regulatory compliance

Professional and Communication

Skills:

Scientific writing (progress updates, manuscripts, grant proposals)
Verbal communication and ability to present scientific findings to diverse audiences

Collaboration within multidisciplinary teams; ability to mentor junior trainees

Resource and time management to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects

Qualifications

Minimum Required

Education:

PhD in a scientific field or MDMinimum

Required Experience:

0 years

Preferred Experience:

Prior virology research experience (e.g., pathogenesis, antiviral drug development, vaccine studies).Familiarity with animal models for viral infection (if applicable). Record of scientific publications or conference presentations and experience preparing grant proposals and regulatory submissions (e.g., IBC).

Physical Requirements Work requires occasionally lifting moderate weight materials, standing, or walking continuously.

Work Environment Occasional exposure to dust, noise, temperature changes, or contact with water or other liquids. Work is performed in an environmentally controlled environment.

Sensory Acuity Ability to detect and translate speech or other communication required. May occasionally require the ability to distinguish colors and perceive relative distances between objects.

Why MCW?

Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental. Along with Flexible Spending options
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