Research Scientist

Join the newly established Ingusci Laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. We are seeking an experienced Research Scientist to contribute to a growing, highly collaborative research program focused on developing next-generation viral vector technologies for precision gene therapy.

About the role

The Ingusci Laboratory engineers replication-defective and replication-competent herpes simplex virus (HSV) vectors for delivering large therapeutic genes, genome engineering technologies, and targeted biologics. Our research integrates molecular virology, immunology, synthetic biology, epigenetics, and gene regulation to develop innovative therapies for neuromuscular disorders, neurodegenerative diseases, and cancer. The successful candidate will help establish the laboratory's research infrastructure, lead independent research projects, and collaborate on multiple funded studies.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute independent research projects in molecular virology, viral vector engineering, and precision gene therapy.
• Design, engineer, produce, and characterize recombinant viral vectors, with an emphasis on herpes simplex virus (HSV) vectors, using advanced molecular cloning, Gibson Assembly, recombinant DNA technologies, PCR, sequencing, and related methodologies.
• Develop and optimize targeted biologics, including protein and antibody engineering approaches (e.g., scFv, nanobody, antibody fusion proteins, and ligand engineering), for viral retargeting and precision gene delivery.
• Apply synthetic biology and genome engineering approaches, including CRISPR-based technologies, to develop and improve next-generation gene therapy platforms.
• Perform mammalian cell culture, transfection, viral infection studies, viral vector production, quality control, and molecular characterization.
• Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques, including immunoblotting, immunofluorescence microscopy, live-cell microscopy, qPCR, flow cytometry, recombinant protein expression, and related methodologies.
• Design and perform preclinical in vivo studies using rodent models, including stereotaxic surgery, viral vector administration, behavioral testing, tissue collection, and downstream molecular and histological analyses.
• Analyze and interpret molecular, imaging, and sequencing datasets using appropriate statistical and bioinformatic approaches.
• Prepare manuscripts, grant applications, scientific presentations, and technical reports.
• Mentor graduate students, undergraduate students, and research staff while contributing to laboratory organization, protocol development, and standard operating procedures.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Virology, Genetics, Biomedical Sciences, Cancer Biology, Neuroscience, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of five years of relevant postdoctoral or equivalent research experience.
• Strong record of independent research and scientific productivity.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and scientific writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using advanced molecular cloning, Gibson Assembly, recombinant DNA technologies, PCR, sequencing, and related methodologies.

Physical Effort

Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods and move about the laboratory. May be required to lift lighter objects.

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Assignment Category: Full-time regular
Job Classification: Staff.Research Scientist
Campus: Pittsburgh
Work Arrangement: On-Campus