Postdoctoral Scientist - Heeger Lab - Translational Immunology

About the Role

Dr. Peter Heeger is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join his translational immunology research laboratory focused on improving outcomes for patients receiving life-saving organ transplants. The successful candidate will work independently but in close cooperation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientists, performing routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout the training period. This position offers an outstanding opportunity to contribute to innovations in precision medicine, immune regulation, and transplantation biology, with the potential to improve the lives of transplant recipients worldwide.

About The Lab

Our research integrates basic immunology, translational science, and clinical investigation to develop biomarker-guided, personalized approaches that improve transplant outcomes. We aim to reduce rejection, minimize medication-related complications, and promote long-term graft function and patient well-being. The laboratory has made significant discoveries linking the complement system with T-cell and B-cell immune responses, identifying novel therapeutic targets for transplant rejection and other immune-mediated diseases. As part of an active, NIH-funded research program, the team leads multiple clinical trials in kidney, heart, and lung transplantation, utilizing advanced proteomic, transcriptomic, and immune profiling technologies.

Responsibilities

• Designs and performs experiments.
• Maintains appropriate experimental records and documentation, and analyzes results with the Principal Investigator.
• Analyzes, interprets, summarizes, and compiles data.
• Operates and maintains equipment and instruments.
• May develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols.
• Assists in the preparation of grant proposals.
• Participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author.

Qualifications

• Doctorate (MD, PhD, VMD, or DDS) in a field directly related to research specialization, required.
• Strong background in Immunology, Molecular Biology, and/or Cellular Biology.
• Skillfulness in molecular and cellular laboratory techniques, including flow cytometry, immune functional assays, ELISA, purification and culture of primary human cells, and single-cell sequencing.
• Bioinformatics experience is a plus.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Highly motivated, independent, intellectually creative, and able to function well as part of a team.
• Ability to contribute to ongoing projects and expand novel independent research projects in a collaborative environment.
• Demonstrated ability to perform experimental protocols, including detailed data collection, analysis, and operation of specialized equipment.
• Knowledge of safety standards and equipment maintenance.

Skills

• Molecular and cellular laboratory techniques (flow cytometry, immune functional assays, ELISA, etc.).
• Purification and culture of primary human cells.
• Single-cell sequencing.
• Bioinformatics (preferred).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

This position is ideal for recent graduates passionate about advancing precision medicine, immune regulation, and transplantation biology. For more information, please visit the lab website.