Postdoctoral Research Scholar

Raleigh, NC

About the role

The Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology at NC State University is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Research Scholar to conduct research focused on the isolation, characterization, genomics, and virulence of Orientia spp. bacteria associated with free-living chiggers. The successful candidate will work as part of a collaborative research team investigating Orientia spp. through a combination of bacterial culture, cell-based assays, next-generation sequencing, and genomic bioinformatics. The position involves laboratory research conducted in a BSL-3 facility, as well as computational analysis of bacterial genomes.

Responsibilities

• Culture Orientia spp. bacteria from specimens collected by collaborating researchers and establish and maintain pure bacterial cultures.
• Conduct laboratory studies to characterize Orientia spp. and assess bacterial virulence using appropriate human or animal cell lines.
• Perform bacterial culture and related laboratory research in a BSL-3 facility in accordance with established biosafety and laboratory protocols.
• Prepare purified bacterial DNA for next-generation sequencing and coordinate genomic sequencing with external sequencing service providers.
• Use probe-directed genome sequencing approaches to obtain genomic data from Orientia spp. present in crude bacterial mixtures.
• Assemble, annotate, and analyze Orientia spp. genome sequences using bioinformatic approaches.
• Compare newly generated genome sequences with known Orientia spp. genomes to determine species identity and characterize genetic relationships.
• Conduct genomic analyses to investigate genetic factors associated with bacterial virulence and other relevant biological characteristics.
• Integrate laboratory and genomic findings to support research objectives.
• Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, presentations, and other scholarly products for dissemination of research findings.
• Present research findings at scientific meetings and conferences.
• Contribute to collaborative research activities, grant proposals, and other scholarly activities as appropriate.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory experiments, genomic analyses, and research findings.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Genomics, or a related field.
• Experience with mammalian and/or microbial cell culture and standard molecular biology techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR, and next-generation sequencing (NGS).
• Knowledge of microbial genomics, including genome assembly, annotation, and genomic data analysis using bioinformatics tools.
• Valid NC Driver’s License.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ability to prepare manuscripts and work effectively in a collaborative research environment.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement and Leave
• Faculty and Staff Assistance Program
• LEAD courses for career enhancement
• Free attendance at non-revenue generating sporting events
• Childcare benefits
• Wellness & Recreation Membership and Wellness Programs

Perks and Benefit eligibility is based on Part-Time or Full-Time Employment status.

Pay

$58,656

Schedule

Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm