Post Doctoral Fellow

Department: MED-Microbiology-Immunology
Salary/Grade: RES/

Job Summary:

Postdoctoral positions are available on NIH funded research projects to study the function of microtubule-associated and microtubule regulatory proteins and their role in viral infection in the Naghavi. Dr. Naghavi is an Associate Professor at the Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago. The Feinberg School of Medicine is located in the center of downtown Chicago. Additional information about the Naghavi lab can be found at http://labs.feinberg.northwestern.edu/naghavi/

Our previous studies have established how HIV-1 controls microtubule behavior to facilitate infection, and the host factors involved. This includes microtubule motor-associated adaptor proteins, as well as specialized microtubule plus-end tracking proteins (called +TIPs) that control the formation of stable microtubule filaments and facilitate HIV-1 infection. Projects will employ a range of molecular biological assays, as well as a variety of fixed and live imaging approaches using super resolution and confocal microscopy to study how HIV-1 particles move within infected cells, including natural target cell types such as brain resident microglia and primary macrophages. Our goal is to understand the molecular basis behind how microtubules, regulators of microtubule dynamics and microtubule motor proteins function to enable HIV-1 movement to and from the nucleus. 

Specific Responsibilities:

• Research in virology, cell biology, and/or molecular biology.  Projects will employ range of molecular biological approaches, including cutting edge live cell imaging of virus movement and microtubule dynamics in microglia cells.
• Fluorescence microscopy and live imaging.
• Skills in statistical analysis required.
• Proficiencies in word processing, spreadsheet, database software, power point, statistics and other software used in scientific research analysis are required.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Ph.D.

Minimum Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities.)

• Written and verbal communications skills, organizational skills, ability to work as a team.

Preferred Qualifications: (Education and experience)

• PhD in virology, cell biology and/or molecular biology. Experience in fluorescence microscopy and live cell imaging.

Preferred Competencies: (Skills, knowledge, and abilities)

• Ability to master basic molecular biology techniques including western blotting, cloning, quantitative real time PCR, tissue culture maintenance, RNA and DNA transfections and microscopy.

Northwestern University is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer of all protected classes, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Hiring is contingent upon eligibility to work in the United States.