The Microbial Pathogenesis Department at the University of Maryland is recruiting a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to investigate the humoral and cellular immune response elicited by vaccines formulated with a novel lipid-A based adjuvants. This project is funded by a five-year contract that has been awarded by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) and seeks to provide IND-enabling data packages that lead toward licensure of new vaccine formulations.

The laboratory uses a method termed bacterial enzyme combinatorial chemistry (BECC) to engineer and create bacterial lipid A structures that act as partial agonists for the innate immune receptor Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4). BECC lipid A are screened for the ability to potentiate an immune response that, in combination with a bacterial antigen, will lead to long term protection against infectious pathogens that have a significant burden on global human health including influenza and SARS-CoV2. As a part of these studies, efforts to develop new vaccine delivery methods and to further advance animal models of infection will be included. A well-suited candidate will have a strong immunology background with experience in multi-parameter flow cytometry, tissue culture, and working with mice. Preference will be given to those candidates with previous backgrounds in influenza vaccine development, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) biology, and microbiology that demonstrate a history of success with independent research. The minimum qualifications include a PhD in microbiology, immunology, vaccinology, or related field. Previous experience working with rodents in a research setting is a requirement. This position will be a critical member of a collaborative, dynamic team and must have good oral and written communication skills, as well a strong record of publications.

The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) is a world-renowned hub of microbiology, virology, and immunology research. The downtown Baltimore campus of the University of Maryland includes the Schools of Dentistry, Medicine, Law, Social Work, and others, making for a rich campus community with extensive resources. Postdoctoral resources and professional development opportunities are extensive at UMB. Centrally located, the campus is close to the excitement of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Camden Yards, M&T Bank Stadium, and is easily reachable by public transportation. The University of Maryland, Baltimore is an AAE/EEO/ADA employer and applicants from underrepresented groups, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Compensation will be commensurate with experience level. Benefits are highly competitive.

To apply, please send a current, dated, and signed Curriculum Vitae, contact information for three references, and a two-page statement (maximum) of research experiences, interest, and goals to:

Dr. Robert K. Ernst, PhD Dr. Paul and Mrs. Jean Corcoran Professor and Chair Department of Microbial Pathogenesis University of Maryland School of Dentistry email: rkernst at umaryland dot edu