Research Affiliate I (Post Doctoral)

Applications to be submitted by August 25, 2026.

About the role

Health Research, Inc. is seeking a Research Affiliate I to work within the Wadsworth Center, Division of Infectious Diseases. The Research Affiliate I will join a research team investigating the mechanisms of antibody-mediated protection against the Lyme disease spirochete, Borrelia burgdorferi (sensu lato). The Research Affiliate I will participate in cutting-edge research focused on characterizing human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) targeting key outer surface proteins, including vaccine targets. The project is multidisciplinary involving various aspects of immunology, microbiology, structural biology, protein engineering and pathology. The ultimate goal of this research is to understand vaccine-induced immunity and to guide the structure-based design of next-generation, broadly protective Lyme disease vaccines. This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens.

Responsibilities

• Participate in research investigating antibody-mediated protection against Borrelia burgdorferi.
• Characterize human monoclonal antibodies targeting key outer surface proteins, including vaccine targets.
• Engage in multidisciplinary research involving immunology, microbiology, structural biology, protein engineering, and pathology.
• Contribute to understanding vaccine-induced immunity and structure-based design of next-generation Lyme disease vaccines.

Requirements

• Doctorate in microbiology, immunology, pathology, or related field and one year of post-doctoral experience.
• Must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location and be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states prior to hire: New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts.
• This position is fully onsite and does not allow telecommuting.
• Must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) as required.
• May require occasional work on weekends, after-hours, and holidays.
• Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience in immunology, cell biology, and/or pathology.
• Experience in mouse models of disease.
• Experience with tissue collection, staining, and imaging by advanced light microscopy.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, and recombinant DNA technology.
• Experience with biostatistics and relevant statistical software.

Pay

Annual salary range: $63,900. Positions with a designated work location in New York City, Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, or Westchester Counties will receive a $4,000 annual downstate adjustment (pro-rated for part-time positions).

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance: Several comprehensive health insurance plans to choose from.
• Flexible benefit accounts: Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking, and transit.
• Generous paid time off: Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation, and personal leave.
• Tuition support: Assistance is available for individuals pursuing educational or training opportunities.
• Retirement Benefits: Participation in the New York State and Local Retirement System and optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan. Postretirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses.
• Employee Assistance Program: Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally.