Postdoctoral/Assistant Staff Scientist Position in Fungal Pathogenesis and Drug Resistance Mechanisms

Arkansas Children’s Research Institute (UAMS) seeks highly motivated and enthusiastic Postdoctoral researcher / Assistant Staff Scientist to pursue advanced research and translational work in the field of fungal genetics and biology with a focus on Aspergillus fumigatus virulence, identification of drug targets, and drug resistance pathways. Qualifications Prospective candidate should have a Ph.D. in the field of microbiology and genetics, or closely related field; demonstrated expertise with molecular genetics and/or molecular biology; demonstrated abilities with techniques including DNA cloning, DNA and RNA extractions, RT-PCR, protein purification, heterologous gene expression, transformation, and gene knockout techniques in fungi; mouse models; and excellent written and oral communication skills. In depth knowledge in using standard genomics/proteomics/molecular biology databases and software tools to analyze and interpret whole proteomic and large genomic data sets will be preferred. Any experience in leading and training PhD students or research assistants will be preferable. Job Description The successful applicant will be responsible for analyzing genomic/proteomic datasets, identifying the function of genes responsible for hyphal growth, virulence, and drug resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus. Work will include but is not limited to: 1) cloning and validating of candidate effector genes; 2) phenotyping and genotyping of a collection of Aspergillus isolates; 3) fungal transformation and gene deletion/disruption utilizing conventional method and CRISPR-Cas9 system, characterization of post-translation modifications in the effector proteins including identification of active sites of the effectors using site directed mutagenesis; 4) identification of protein-protein interactions and protein localization; whole proteomic analysis, and 5) antifungal drug screening and evaluating the interactions of the effectors in causing disease using mouse model. Responsibilities and duties will include experimental designing and work, data collection, interpretation and management, and presentations at scientific meetings and publishing. This appointment is initially for one year and is renewable based on funding availability and satisfactory performance of the candidate. Applicants may send (1) their CV with bibliography, (2) a cover letter with a statement of research interests and career goals to Praveen Juvvadi ([email protected]).