The Division of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School looks forward to welcoming a new Postdoctoral Scientist. Our lab studies host-microbe interactions and inflammation with the goal to discover mechanisms and design interventions to decrease susceptibility to infection, cancer, infertility, pregnancy failure, and adverse child health outcomes. Learn more about our research.
The Division seeks candidates who are passionate about building and sustaining an inclusive and equitable working and learning environments for all employees, staff, and faculty. They should possess a strong interest in working with others and fostering an inclusive team environment. We believe every member on our team enriches our diversity by exposing us to a broad range of ways to understand and engage with the world, identify challenges, and to discover, design and deliver solutions.
Location: Laboratory of Genital Tract Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 221 Longwood Avenue, RF472, Boston, MA 02115
Principal Investigator: Raina Fichorova, MD, PhD, Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, the Walter Channing MD Distinguished Chair in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Director
Application: Interested individuals should send a cover letter describing research interests and goals, curriculum vitae, two sample publications, and the names/phone numbers of three people who could provide letters of reference. Indicate US work permit authorization. Please email application packet to snartey@bwh.harvard.edu.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or based on disability.
The postdoctoral scientist will have access to the rich resources and infrastructure available at our Harvard-affiliated hospital. We support career development through opportunities for presenting at seminars and conferences, teaching, mentoring, and numerous courses available to postdoctoral trainees at our institution.
Salary is determined in accordance with the years of postdoctoral experience in accordance with current guidance issued by National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and the Health Resources Services Administration (HRSA).
The postdoctoral scientist will work closely with Dr. Fichorova primarily on a recently funded research project to investigate the mechanisms by which mucosal surfaces can sense a microbiome and send out non-coding RNA to affect immunity and susceptibility to infection, as well as how reproductive hormones may steer this process. The study involves analyses of a collection of clinical biospecimen as well as in-vitro experimentation to model microbial synergisms in the vaginal environment and apply molecular biology to validate causative links.
Specific Position Duties
Research (full time)
- Design, execute, and interpret research experiments using state of the art techniques and methods
- Assist in training investigators in techniques relating to small animal surgery, immunology techniques, and vector construction.
- Investigate, create, and develop new methods and ideas for research advancements
- Assist in laboratory management
- Write scientific publications
- Present the results at national and international scientific meetings
- Participate in writing grant applications
- Continuously train in responsible conduct of research and strictly follow all institutional policies and regulations
PhD degree in molecular biology, microbiology or immunology with formal training and strong skills in biostatistics. Previous experience with either non-coding RNA data/experimentation, or microbiome and bioinformatics is highly preferred. Experience with large library screens and omics data is desirable. Excellent oral communication and excellent skills in scientific writing in English based on publication record are necessary.
Basic Research Competencies and Abilities
- Demonstrated ability to work productively, both independently and as part of a collaborative team
- Strong research design and analytical skills, with demonstrated ability to problem solve
- In depth knowledge of field of research
- Strict adherence to ethical code of conduct and lab policies
- Willingness to mentor and supervise predoctoral researchers in the lab
- Strong commitment to academic career
- excellence in scientific writing in English
Technical Skills and Competencies
- Knowledge and hands on experience in molecular biology techniques required e.g., DNA/RNA isolation, quantitative RT-PCR, plasmid purification, transfection, and RNA silencing
- Meticulous attention to details
- Abilities to follow and contribute to the development of strict standardized operational procedures under laboratory accreditation
- Experience working with large databases and omics data
- Familiarity/proficiency with biostatistical design and bioinformatics preferred
Organization, Communication and System Skills Required
- Highly proficient in all communication skills. Ability to handle sensitive information and situations with professionalism
- Verbal skills: Ability to interpret information as appropriate and communicate in a professional, courteous, clear, and concise manner.
- Strong organizational, coordination and judgment skills
- Ability to prioritize effectively. Ability to manage multiple tasks effectively, following established protocols, and work within systems
- Advanced computer skills. Ability to use all applicable applications at highest competency level
- Ability to problem solves and troubleshoots. Ability to analyze a situation and determine best course of action within established guidelines
COVID-19 vaccination is now mandatory for all Brigham and Women’s Hospital employees.