Postdoctoral Research Associate, Child Health Research Center

The Department of Pediatrics at the University of Virginia seeks a postdoctoral Research Associate . The position carries out research studies in the laboratory of Dr. Fernando Ruiz in the Child Health Research Center (CHRC). Dr. Ruiz's laboratory focuses on understanding the role of virulence factors in the pathogenesis of diarrheagenic E. coli , particularly in elucidating the various mechanisms that a family of serine proteases (SPATEs) exerts to regulate cellular and immune functions during bacterial infections. In addition, our research program will address the potential to manipulate SPATEs for vaccines purposes and for developing therapeutic strategies to treat inflammatory disorders. The ideal candidate will be an enthusiastic, highly motivated individual interested in microbial pathogenesis in the context of human health and disease.

D uties & Responsibilities. T he successful candidate is expected to work both independently and collaboratively on several projects to study molecular mechanisms of SPATEs in the pathogenesis of Enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC) and other E. coli pathotypes of public health importance employing human intestinal stem cells. D uties include: designing and setting up experiments; knowing, understanding, and being able to perform necessary research techniques; and analyzing, evaluating, and presenting data with the goal of publishing and securing extramural funding. Preparation of manuscripts and posters for national symposiums is expected.The successful candidate will remain current with the appropriate research literature and participate in lab meetings and relevant science seminars. The Research Associate will be held to the highest expectations in the ethical conduct of scientific research.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Qualified applicants must have an M.D. and/or Ph.D. in Microbiology, Immunology, Cell and Molecular Biology, or related fields before the start date. The candidate is expected to have at least one first-authored publication in a peer-reviewed journal, and demonstrated skills must include the use of techniques in cell and molecular biology such as cell culture, functional, biochemical, and cell-based assays. Extensive experience in basic immunology, flow cytometry, and microscopy are required. Experience working with pathogenic E. coli is preferred. Working independently and interacting with diverse groups of scientists and students is essential.

Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience. The successful candidate will benefit from a community of interactive research labs. The continuation of this position is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance.

This is a restricted position; continuation is dependent on funding and satisfactory performance.

Priority review of applications will begin on December 23, 2021, but the position will remain open until filled.

TO APPLY:

EXTERNAL APPLICANTS: please apply through Workday at the following URL, https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs , and search for requisition # R0031364. Complete an application online and attach a cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references (name, email address, telephone number, and address). The successful candidate will pass a criminal background check and pre-employment health screening. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box. Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

INTERNAL UVA APPLICANTS: please apply through your Workday Home page, search “Find Jobs”, and search for requisition # R0031364. Complete an application online and attach a cover letter, CV/resume, and contact information for three references (name, email address, telephone number, and address). The successful candidate will pass a criminal background check and pre-employment health screening. Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box. Applications that do not contain all required documents will not receive full consideration.

For questions regarding the application process, please contact Michelle Williams, Senior Recruiter/Faculty Search Advisor, at mew8js@virginia.edu .

For additional information, please contact Dr. Ruiz, Department of Pediatrics, at fr3d@virginia.edu .

COVID Vaccination Requirement and Guidelines

Please visitthe UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines webpageprior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirementsandguidelines for employment at UVA.

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff. We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences. We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.