Brigham and Women’s Hospital Postdoctoral Trainee
The Division of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School looks forward to welcoming a new Postdoctoral Scientist. Our lab studies host-microbe interactions and inflammation with the goal to discover mechanisms and design interventions to decrease susceptibility to infection, cancer, infertility, pregnancy failure, and adverse child health outcomes. To learn more about research visit: https://fichorovalab.bwh.harvard.edu/
The Division seeks candidates who are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environment for all employees, staff, and faculty. They should possess a strong interest in working with others and fostering an inclusive team environment. We believe every member on our team enriches our diversity by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions.
Location: Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Avenue, RF472, Boston, MA 02115
Principal Investigator: Raina Fichorova, MD, Ph.D., Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, the Walter Channing MD Distinguished Chair in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Director.
Application: Interested individuals should send a cover letter describing research interests and goals, curriculum vitae, two sample publications, and the names/phone numbers of three people who could provide letters of reference.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or on the basis of disability
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The postdoctoral scientist will work closely with Dr. Fichorova primarily on a recently funded research project to investigate the mechanisms by which mucosal surfaces can sense a microbiome and send out non-coding RNA to affect immunity and susceptibility to infection, as well as how reproductive hormones may steer this process. The study involves analyses of a large collection of biospecimen contributed by reproductive-age women from Africa and the United States as well as in-vitro experimentation to model microbial synergisms in the vaginal environment and apply molecular biology to validate causative links.
Specific Position Duties
Research (100%)
- Perform experiments using advanced biomedical research techniques
- Generate and analyze data
- Have the primary responsibility for writing scientific publications
- Present the results at national and international scientific meetings
- Participate in writing grant applications
- Continuously train in responsible conduct of research and follow strictly all institutional policies and regulations
The postdoctoral scientist will have access to the rich resources and infrastructure available at our Harvard Affiliated hospital. We support career development through opportunities for presenting at seminars and conferences, teaching, mentoring, and numerous courses available to postdoctoral trainees at our institution.
Ph.D. degree in molecular biology, microbiology or immunology with formal training and strong skills in biostatistics. Previous experience with either non-coding RNA data/experimentation, or microbiome and bioinformatics is highly preferred. Experience with large library screens and omics data is desirable. Excellent oral communication and excellent skills in scientific writing in English based on publication record are necessary.
Research, Competencies and Abilities
- meticulous attention to details
- abilities to follow and contribute to the development of strict standardized operational procedures under laboratory accreditation
- strict adherence to ethical code of conduct and lab policies
- ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team
- willingness to mentor predoctoral researchers in the lab
- strong commitment to academic career
- excellence in scientific writing in English
Technical Research Skills and Competencies
- Knowledge and hands on experience in molecular biology techniques required e.g. DNA/RNA isolation, quantitative RT-PCR, plasmid purification, transfection, and RNA silencing
- Experience working with large databases and omics data
- Familiarity/proficiency with biostatistical design and bioinformatics preferred
Organization, Communication and Systems skills required
- Knowledge of practice operations and standards.
- Highly proficient in all communication skills (phone, verbal and written). Ability to handle sensitive information and situations with poise and professionalism.
- Verbal skills: Ability to interpret information as appropriate; answer complex questions in the most professional manner and communicate in a professional, courteous, clear and concise manner.
- Advanced understanding and use of medical and scientific terminology.
- Strong organizational, coordination and judgment skills.
- Ability to prioritize effectively. Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, following established protocols, and work within systems.
- Advanced computer skills. Ability to use all applicable applications at highest competency level.
- Ability to problem solves and troubleshoots. Ability to analyze a situation and determine best course of action within established guidelines.
- Website
Contact
Interested individuals should send a cover letter, curriculum vitae, two sample publications, and the names/phone numbers of three people who could provide letters of reference by email to Ms. Hidemi Yamamoto, Lab Manager [email protected].