Position Description

The Department of Microbiology at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School seeks applicants for tenured or tenure-track faculty positions.  We are searching for highly motivated, enthusiastic individuals committed to tackling cutting edge topics in animal virology.  Candidates will have earned a Ph.D. or M.D. and demonstrated a track record of outstanding research accomplishments.  A successful candidate will be expected to develop and lead an internationally recognized, extramurally funded research program focused on virus replication, pathogenesis, or interactions with the host.  Topics we would consider include but are not limited to structure of enveloped and nonenveloped viruses; mechanisms of virus cell entry and virion assembly; mechanisms of virus gene expression and replication; virus latency; virus-host interactions, including B and T cell immune responses and innate immune responses to infections; mechanisms of immune evasion; antigenic diversity; virus evolution; and mechanisms of disease. 

We are especially eager to consider applicants who will support and elevate the UMass Chan commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and foster an environment of open communication, collaboration, and cooperation that exists within the department and across the school. As an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer, UMass Chan recognizes the power of a diverse community and encourages applications from individuals with varied experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds.  Junior faculty at UMass Chan are supported by early career programs such as the Institutional Investigator Career Advancement Program (iCAP), an Early State Investigator (KL2) training program, and pilot project grants by the Center for Clinical and Translational Science (CCTS).

The Department occupies contiguous space in a recently constructed, well-equipped, research building on the rapidly expanding UMass Chan Medical School campus.  Departmental resources and institutional core facilities to support virology focused research include newly renovated and expanded biosafety level 3 labs, state-of-the-art flow cytometry, world-class cryo-electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, deep sequencing, transgenic/knockout services, biosafety level 2 and 3 animal facilities, AAV and viral vector manufacturing services.  The Microbiology Department-sponsored Sanderson Center for Optical Experimentation (SCOPE) includes super resolution imaging, multiphoton intravital and live tissue imaging, confocal microscopy, high-speed time-lapse imaging, as well as tools and expertise to assist in optical image generation and quantitative analysis.  More information about the Microbiology Department can be found at www.umassmed.edu/maps. Additional facilities are described at https://www.umassmed.edu/research/cores/

The University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School is a highly ranked, world-class research institution with multiple graduate training programs, affiliated hospitals, and community patient care centers. UMass Chan is dedicated to serving the central Massachusetts community, promoting STEM educational opportunities, and improving public health statewide. Our diverse faculty, staff, and students participate in K-12 and undergraduate science educational programs, STEM mentorship programs for under-represented groups, medical programs for the under-served, and other health advocacy activities. As the central hub for patient services, research, and medical education, the UMass Chan Medical School campus is strategically poised to empower translational research innovation. When you join UMass Chan Medical School, you join a team of highly engaged colleagues dedicated to enriching health, science, and community.

Application Procedure

The following application materials should be submitted via https://academicjobsonline.org/ajo/UMassMed

1. A one-page cover letter describing the applicant’s interest in joining the Microbiology Department.
2. The applicant’s CV.
3. An anonymized research statement (maximum 3 pages) that describes the applicant’s plan for their independent research as well as the applicant’s most significant accomplishments.
4. A diversity, equity and inclusion statement of no more than 2 pages that describes the applicant’s understanding of diversity, as well as past experiences and future plans to advance diversity, equity and inclusion.
5. Contact information for three professional references who are familiar with the applicants work and potential for success.

Inquiries, but not application materials, should be directed to the Chair of the Faculty Search Committee, James Munro (James.Munro@umassmed.edu).  Applications will be evaluated as soon as they are received and accepted until December 16, 2024.