Postdoctoral Research Fellow - Reinherz Lab

The Reinherz lab at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and Harvard Medical School is recruiting a postdoctoral fellow to study HIV-1 vaccine immunology. We use an interdisciplinary approach combining structural biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and immunology to generate insights that can be translated into HIV-1 vaccine design.

About the role

Specific research areas of interest include molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying B cell immunodominance and strategies to modulate B cell affinity maturation during vaccination to induce protective immunity while preventing induction of autoimmunity. The laboratory provides a rich training environment and access to cutting-edge techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute studies related to HIV-1 Env vaccine candidates.
• Investigate approaches to enhance B cell affinity maturation and antibody responses.
• Perform mouse immunization studies and related in vivo experimental work.
• Analyze immune sera to assess vaccine-elicited responses.
• Conduct flow cytometry (FACS) for immune cell characterization and analysis.
• Perform B cell repertoire analysis and immunohistology experiments.
• Carry out molecular cloning, protein expression, and protein purification.
• Maintain and utilize cell culture systems to support research activities.
• Interpret experimental data, prepare reports, and contribute to manuscripts for publication.
• Collaborate effectively with other lab members and support broader research goals.

Requirements

• Recent PhD or MD/PhD in biomedical sciences or a closely related field.
• Strong background in immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry.
• Hands-on experience with techniques used to evaluate immune responses, including:
  • Antibody measurement
  • B cell and T cell response analysis
  • B cell repertoire analysis
  • Mouse models and animal handling
• Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team setting.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with molecular cloning and related molecular biology techniques.
• Proficiency in protein expression, protein purification, and biochemical methods.
• Experience with cell culture techniques.
• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects.

Pay

$72,000.00 - $76,385.00