JOB TITLE Post Doctoral Fellow LOCATION Worcester DEPARTMENT NAME Biology & Biotechnology - NFR JM DIVISION NAME Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY The Bourgeois Lab at Worcester Polytechnic Institute is hiring a postdoctoral fellow to work towards identifying genetic risk factors of severe and post-treatment Lyme diseasecaused by B. burgdorferi infection. The project leverages single-cell RNA sequencing, DNA sequencing, cell culture, and clinical data to gain mechanistic insight into why Lyme disease outcomes are variable. As a result, this position involves a mix of computational and experimental tasks. JOB DESCRIPTION Responsibilities: Perform cell culture in a Biosafety Level 2 (BSL2) laboratory to probe how primary and immortalized human cells respond to Borrelia burgdorferi. Maintain clear electronic laboratory notebook describing experimental techniques performed in the lab. Leverage bioinformatic skills to analyze transcriptomic data, collect and organize human whole-genome sequencing data, and perform GWAS analyses. Keep robust notes on how the code works and key considerations for repeating the analyses. Independently read primary literature to remain current on new advances in bioinformatic tools and pipelines, as well as relevant findings in B. burgdorferi host-pathogen interactions. Collaborate with other researchers in the lab and across WPI. Train undergraduate and graduate students in the laboratory. Present data and findings to the field through oral presentations and written manuscripts. Performs all other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. Job Qualifications: PhD in molecular biology, immunology, genetics/genomics, microbiology, or comparable field Robust publication record demonstrating expertise in cell culture, host-pathogen interactions, and bioinformatics Demonstrable ability to write clearly and concisely Specific expertise in performing GWAS analyses is preferred, but not necessary To learn more about the Bourgeois Lab, please see: bourgeoislabworcester.wordpress.com. To Apply: Please include (1) A brief cover letter describing your past research experiences and goals for postdoctoral training, (2) A curriculum vitae (CV), and (3) Information for three references with your application. Questions can be sent to jbourgeois@wpi.edu. Compensation: Annual salary up to $63,900. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. FLSA STATUS United States of America (Exempt) WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination. About WPI Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant and diverse community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the-art research facilities, WPI offers competitive and comprehensive employee benefit programs, including paid time off, health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respectmaking inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.
