We are currently seeking a postdoctoral researcher for a fellowship position that is immediately available at the La Jolla Institute for Immunology. The postdoc will collaborate on projects of mutual interest with the Sette (https://www.lji.org/labs/sette/) and Grifoni (https://www.lji.org/labs/grifoni-lab/) Labs, which are part of the Center for Vaccine Innovation and are engaged in impactful scientific projects related to immune responses to infection and vaccines. Dr. Sette and Dr. Grifoni's labs are experts in immune response research and focus on T cell responses to infectious diseases, particularly Coronaviruses, Arenaviruses, Orthopoxviruses, Bordetella Pertussis, Streptococcus and other emergent viral and bacterial pathogens relevant to worldwide global health, utilizing both experimental and bioinformatic methods to further their understanding.

List of relevant publications related to this position:

Tarke et al., Cell Rep Med. 2024; PMID: 38781962.
da Silva Antunes et al, Cell Host Microbe. 2023; PMID: 37490913
Tarke et al., Cell. 2022; PMID: 35139340.
Tian et al., J Clin Invest. 2019; PMID: 30882366.
Grifoni et al., J Immunol. 2018; PMID: 30413672.

We are in search of an individual who is passionate about discovery and advancing our knowledge of how the human body can enhance immunity to prevent or combat infections. The postdoc will be expected to help define the research questions of interest, and lead both empirical and methodological research efforts towards publication in concert with the PI and other collaborators.

The ideal candidate would have an interest in translational research with applications in health care and will play a crucial role within a dedicated team of scientists and thrive in a supportive atmosphere that offers mentorship, nurtures talent, and promotes personal development and education. LJI is a globally recognized institution that offers outstanding perks and strong backing for its researchers.

Include in your application in one SINGLE file:

1. A cover letter describing your background and interest in the position

2. Your CV

3. Contact information for three references

Required Qualifications:

Doctoral degree in immunology, bioinformatics, cell biology, molecular biology, virology, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
Previous experience in cell and molecular biology with focus on human immunology is mandatory.
Demonstrated proficiency in blood processing, cell culture, flow cytometry, FluoroSpot/ELISPOT or other immunological/molecular techniques.
Experience working with large data sets, including expertise with computational methods and appropriate software platforms.
Knowledge of scRNAseq and TCRseq analysis is a plus.
Successful publication record.

Benefits:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience
Opportunities for professional development and advancement
Access to cutting-edge facilities and resources for research
Supportive and inclusive work environment fostering growth and innovation
Networking opportunities with professionals in the field of immunology

About LJI

The La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) offers a collegial work environment that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork and creativity. Full-time employment at LJI includes a competitive salary, medical/dental/vision benefits, paid sick leave, and contributions to a retirement plan (403B). For the last decade, LJI has been ranked as one of the best places to work in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal. The Institute hosts world-renowned faculty and over 80 postdoctoral researchers. LJI is located in the Science Research Park on the campus of UC San Diego, providing easy access to the San Diego life sciences community and all that the area has to offer.

The La Jolla Institute for Immunology (LJI) offers a collegial work environment that emphasizes collaboration, teamwork and creativity. Full-time employment at LJI includes a competitive salary, medical/dental/vision benefits, paid sick leave, and contributions to a retirement plan (403B). For the last decade, LJI has been ranked as one of the best places to work in San Diego by the San Diego Business Journal. The Institute hosts world-renowned faculty and over 80 postdoctoral researchers. LJI is located in the Science Research Park on the campus of UC San Diego, providing easy access to the San Diego life sciences community and all that the area has to offer.

LJI provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, marital status, disability status, genetics, medical conditions, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, reproductive health decisions, or pregnancy, or any other condition protected by state and local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruitment, hiring, placing, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfers, educational assistance, terminations, layoffs, recalls, transfers, leaves of absences, and social and recreational programs.

With over 30 different countries represented, diversity is respected and celebrated at LJI. We are committed to ensuring a safe and compassionate environment that is equal, just, and fair. Science and discovery benefit from a diversity of talents, a diversity of approaches, and a diversity of perspectives. The La Jolla Institute’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiative is designed to help us identify areas at the Institute that need improvement so we can together create an environment that is inclusive, provides equal opportunities, and opens doors that propel our research for human health.

La Jolla Institute is committed to compensation that is externally competitive and internally equitable. We validate this commitment by conducting regular market analyses to remain competitive with organizations of similar size in the nonprofit, independent research sector. Compensation decisions consider a variety of factors including experience, education, unique skill sets, organizational need, and internal equity.

Postdoctoral Fellow (Sette/Grifoni Lab)

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