Overview
An NIH funded Postdoctoral Associate position is available immediately in the Zwick lab as part of an interdisciplinary research project in HIV vaccine design.
The successful candidate will (1) create immunogens containing the membrane embedded envelope glycoprotein of HIV-1 arrayed on VLPs and liposomes, (2) identify broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) from vaccinated animals and HIV-positive humans, particularly those against gp41, (3) re-design immunogens and improve bnAb responses in animal models.
The candidate will be required to learn quickly and apply cutting-edge technologies to address critical problems in HIV vaccine design. Candidate must be self-motivated, able to manage deadlines and solve problems. Excellent communication skills are essential. Candidate must work well independently and as part of a team.
There will be opportunities to interact with clinical researchers, experts in B cell repertoire analysis, and structural biologists. Additional training opportunities exist at Scripps in science writing and career development.
Responsibilities:
– Single B cell analysis of HIV bnAb responses in humans and animals
– Antibody cloning and analysis by various immunoassays
– Work with an inter-disciplinary team on the design of Env vaccines that can drive bnAb responses, NGS of B cell lineages, structures of antibodies in complex with HIV Env
– Contribute to manuscript and grant writing
About The Scripps Research Institute
The Scripps Research Institute, one of the world's largest, private, non-profit research organizations, stands at the forefront of basic biomedical science, a vital segment of medical research that seeks to comprehend the most fundamental processes of life. Over the last decades, the institute has established a lengthy track record of major contributions to the betterment of health and the human condition.