Postdoc position on engineering immune tolerance by combining mRNA technologies, nanoparticles and epigenetic editing

The laboratory of Dr. Samira Kiani at the University of Pittsburgh has an immediate opening for an outstanding, highly motivated, and self-driven postdoc candidate to join a collaborative research program on engineering immune tolerance by combining mRNA technologies, nanoparticles and epigenetic editing.

Kiani’s lab is interested in using the designer DNA binding proteins such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeat (CRISPR) and Zinc Finger proteins to develop novel editing tools to address safety of gene therapies and develop strategies to engineer immune response. This project aims to specifically engineer immune tolerance against any desired antigen. The ideal candidate has strong background either in immunology, in vivo mouse models, nanoparticles or gene editing tools.

Minimum/Basic Qualifications: MD or Ph.D. degree in a related field of study (genetics, immunology, biology, bioengineering, molecular biology, and/or cell biology). A good track record of publications is required.

Appointment: This position reports to Dr. Samira Kiani and is situated at the Pittsburgh Liver Research Center and the main campus of Pittsburgh University School of Medicine. It is a full-time, benefits-eligible, fiscal appointment with immediate start date. Initially intended to be for one year but there is the possibility of renewal, dependent on available funding, performance, and the needs of the University. The salary follows the NIH Pay line scales for postdocs. Applications will be reviewed weekly until the search is closed. A background check is required for employment. The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer committed to excellence through diversity. Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Interested candidates should contact Dr. Samira Kiani (skiani@pitt.edu) with their CV, cover letter, and contact information of at least two referees included in the email.