Research Microbiologist Postdoctoral Associate

Organization
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Reference Code
ARS-VPRU-2016-0020-05
How to Apply

A complete application package consists of:

  • An application
  • Transcript(s) - Click here for detailed information about acceptable transcripts.
  • A current resume/CV
  • Two references - While two references are requested, applications will be considered without reference information.  It is preferred that a complete application package contains a minimum of one reference.

If you have questions, send an email to USDA-ARS@orau.org.  Please include the reference code for this opportunity in your email.

Description

A postdoctoral research opportunity is available with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service (ARS), Virus and Prion Research Unit (VPRU), in Ames, IA.  The incumbent's overall responsibility is characterization of the evolution of influenza A viruses (IAV) in swine and pathotyping of IAV in the natural host in support of the USDA-ARS mission.  Specific goals are to quantify evolution of IAV from swine and its implication to swine or other susceptible hosts and to investigate the pathogenesis and transmission of emerging IAV in the swine or other susceptible hosts.  The desired appointment start date is September 1, 2016. 

The appointment is within the Swine Viral Diseases Pathogenesis and Immunology project in the VPRU.  Scientists in this unit maintain a comprehensive IAV research program including investigation of virulence mechanisms, vaccinology, immunology, and virus evolution.

The appointment is full-time for one year and may be renewed based upon recommendation of the ARS and availability of funding.  The selected applicant will receive a stipend as support for their living and other expenses during this appointment.  Stipend rates are determined by ARS officials, and are based on the applicant’s academic and professional background.  The participant must show proof of health and medical insurance.  Health insurance can be obtained through ORISE. 

The participant will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, USDA, ARS, or any other office or agency.  Instead, the participant will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment.

For more information about the ARS Research Participation Program, please visit the Program Website.

Qualifications

The research assignment requires a Ph.D. degree with emphasis on the disciplines of immunology, virology, and molecular biology and additional knowledge of research and research techniques. 

In depth knowledge of virology and molecular biology techniques and the use of animal models for disease are preferred.

The incumbent must be skilled in the performance of virologic and molecular biologic laboratory assays, use of animal models in influenza research, cloning, sequencing, sequence analysis, cell culture, serologic assays, immunologic assays, technical writing and peer-reviewed publications, public speaking, and possess good interpersonal skills to work in a team environment.

Eligibility Requirements
  • Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
  • Degree: Doctoral Degree received within the last 60 month(s).
  • Discipline(s):
    • Communications and Graphics Design (1 )
    • Life Health and Medical Sciences (5 )
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