About Us:
Howard University, located in Washington, D.C., is a distinguished private research institution with federal chartering. Its state-of-the-art Interdisciplinary Research Building (IRB) houses a modern laboratory equipped with the latest tools and technology. The research conducted here is well supported by NIH grants.
Our team has primarily been working on the innovation of replicating single-cycle flavivirus vaccines. Both our studies and those of other researchers highlight the vaccine's ability to elicit a robust protective immune response, while ensuring superior safety. Traditionally, single-cycle flavivirus vaccines were generated by using packaging cells to envelop the viral RNA replicon within viral particles. However, this method faces obstacles due to its complexity and low yield rates.
In light of this, we've pioneered a new methodology that transforms a dual-tropic flavivirus into one that's insect-specific. These newly engineered insect-specific viruses are capable of initiating a single-cycle infection in vertebrate cells without yielding infectious viruses, thereby categorizing them as vertebrate-specific replication defective viruses (VSRDV). Significantly, VSRDVs can achieve high replication rates in insect cells. This overcomes the challenges of the previously intricate and less efficient vaccine production systems. Our innovations pave the way for the creation of the next wave of safe, effective, and cost-efficient flavivirus vaccines.
Position Description:
We invite dedicated and proficient Postdoctoral Research Fellows to become part of our vibrant team, where we are at the forefront of developing advanced virus vaccines. The selected individual will play a crucial role in conceptualizing, refining, and assessing vaccine candidates targeting arboviruses, using the latest methodologies spanning molecular biology, immunology, virology, and vaccinology. A robust background in vaccine animal testing is highly advantageous. Under the mentorship of Dr. Xiaowu Pang, you'll navigate through your research journey. Notably, Dr. Pang's lab has been at the vanguard of researching vertebrate-specific replication-defective flaviviruses that have their origins in dual-host progenitor viruses. The overarching aim is to produce arbovirus vaccines that are safe, efficacious, and economically viable.
Qualifications:
For consideration in this position, applicants must hold at least a Ph.D. in a pertinent field like molecular biology, immunology, or virology. A deep understanding and experience in studying immunology related to infectious diseases will be viewed favorably. Candidates should exhibit a proven history of top-tier research, evidenced by publications in respected peer-reviewed journals. Essential qualities include excellent organizational skills, the capacity to work autonomously as well as collaboratively within a research team. Furthermore, candidates should be proficient in both comprehending and articulating intricate details in a way that's approachable for varied audiences.
Responsibilities:
• Lead self-driven research initiatives in the domain of arbovirus vaccine evolution.
• Work in collaboration with the research factions at John Hopkins University and University of Texas Medical Branch.
• Disseminate research outcomes in esteemed peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research endeavors at conferences and seminars.
• Provide mentorship and guidance to graduate and undergraduate scholars.
Benefits:
Competitive salary and benefits package; Access to state-of-the-art research facilities; Opportunities for professional development and networking.
Application Process:
If you're keen to apply, please send the below-mentioned documents to
[email protected]:
• A cover letter outlining your research passions and prior experiences.
• Your detailed curriculum vitae.
• Reference details for three professional contacts.
• Copies of pertinent publications or draft manuscripts.
Contact Information:
For inquiries about the position, please contact Dr. Xiaowu Pang (
[email protected]).
