Postdoctoral Research Associate

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and evaluate novel antigens to advance HIV-1 vaccine research
• Conduct structure-based immunogen design, molecular cloning, and immunogen production
• Evaluate immune responses using various biochemical and immunological assays
• Work in BSL-2 laboratory environments, including mammalian cell culture
• Support small animal studies involving mice and rabbits
• Mentor junior laboratory members and contribute to manuscript preparation
• Assist with the development of grant proposals

Requirements

• Ph.D. in molecular biology, virology, immunology, microbiology, or a related field
• Proven experience in gene cloning and molecular biology
• Experience in viral vaccine research and development (R&D)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with recombinant protein expression in eukaryotic/prokaryotic systems and protein purification
• Experience with immunoassays and virus neutralization assays
• Experience with HIV-1 vaccine research
• Experience with structural analysis of proteins (e.g., X-ray crystallography, cryo-EM)
• Experience with hybridoma generation, monoclonal antibody (mAb) characterization, and laboratory animal handling

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday, and sick leave plans
• Onsite childcare in Ames, Iowa
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts and various voluntary benefits
• Employee Assistance Program and wellbeing programs
• WorkFlex options for flexibility in when, where, and how you work

About the Company

Iowa State University is a land-grant institution dedicated to education, research, extension, and outreach. The Department of Biomedical Sciences provides superior education in basic health sciences, supporting a wide range of curricula from undergraduate to professional DVM programs. Located in Ames, Iowa, the university fosters a welcoming community committed to innovation and critical thinking.