The Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, Division of  Pediatric Rheumatology is  seeking a  Postdoctoral Research Scholar to assist with research efforts on understanding the immunologic and genetic basis of autoinflammatory disorders including those that affect the bone.  The primary duty will be to perform functional studies to identify pathways and proteins that are involved in inflammatory disorders of innate immunity primarily using genetic models of disease.  The role of lipid metabolism in autoinflammation is related area of interest to our research group.

The candidate will be responsible for designing, performing, and analyzing experiments related to inflammatory pathogenesis.  The successful applicant will perform research activities based upon protocols developed by other research staff or principal investigator of the research project and develop new protocols as needed for the project. Collect and track data, perform data entry for reports and maintain records of methods used. Prepare materials for abstracts/reports/grant applications & manuscripts and write drafts of manuscripts and participate in the preparation of manuscripts.  The associate will also be expected to present seminars and posters at regional and national scientific meetings

• Design and conduct research to elucidate the critical molecular and structural components of the immune system that lead to autoinflammatory disease.


• Conduct molecular biological research to perform functional studies to validate candidate genes in pathogenesis of immunologic disease.


• Conduct in vitro and in vivo assays.


• Analyze immunologic function of human and small animal models of disease.


• Generate, manage, evaluate, and maintain data in a highly organized manner.


• Author manuscripts, grants and prepare scientific presentations including the writing of initial drafts of manuscripts and the preparation of figures for publication


• Analyze literature to develop hypothesis for discussion with other researchers or principal investigator.


• Read and understand protocols.


• Develop new protocols in collaboration with the principal investigator


• Troubleshoot and analyze protocols; propose modifications to other researchers or principal investigator.


• Arrange and plan daily activities to prepare for experimental protocols.

• Ph.D is required, in the biological sciences

• Strong background in cellular/molecular biology research and excellent references from their Ph.D research.


• Ability to effectively manage and prioritize multiple parallel laboratory activities, and communicate the prioritization of these activities to stakeholders is essential.


• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment where results are achieved through influence and the incorporation of multiple points of view.


• Ability to execute and follow-through to completion and documentation.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Highly Desired Qualifications

• Demonstrated strong record of conducting cellular, genetic or molecular biology of innate immune function


• Experience in osteoclast biology/osteoimmunology


• Experience with gene expression analysis including RNAseq


• Experience with genome editing using techniques such as CRISPR is highly desirable.


• Prior experience conducting research breeding, genotyping, phenotyping and analyzing immunologic abnormalities in inbred and mutant strains of mice is highly desirable.


• Prior experience conducting small animal research


• Independently motivated, detail oriented and good problem solving ability.