Post Doctoral.Post Doctoral.Associate in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at University of Pittsburgh

Post Doctoral.Post Doctoral.Associate
GSPH-Infectious Diseases & Microbiology - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26005507)

The Tufts VECTOR (Vector, Ecology, Control, Transmission, and One Health Research) Lab in the Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health at the University of Pittsburgh, invites applications for a Postdoctoral Associate to join an interdisciplinary research program investigating the ecology, evolution, and immunology of Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. Our lab integrates field ecology, molecular biology, genomics, immunology, and epidemiology to better understand the emergence and transmission of vector-borne pathogens at the human-animal-environment interface. By combining ecological surveillance with cutting-edge molecular and immunological approaches, our research seeks to identify mechanisms driving pathogen emergence and translate these findings into improved strategies for disease prediction, prevention, and public health.

The successful candidate will join a collaborative, NIH-funded project investigating why certain B. burgdorferi genotypes are more likely to infect humans and contribute to Lyme disease. This project combines longitudinal field studies, high-resolution pathogen genomics, and host immunology to characterize circulating OspC genotypes in tick vectors and small mammal reservoir hosts over time, identify mammalian-specialized genotypes associated with human infection, and determine whether seasonal changes in genotype diversity can be predicted. In parallel, the project seeks to elucidate host immune responses to genetically distinct B. burgdorferi strains and uncover the mechanisms these pathogens use to evade host immunity.

This position provides an opportunity for a highly motivated scientist to develop expertise spanning disease ecology, molecular microbiology, genomics, and immunology while working within a collaborative One Health research environment. The successful candidate will have opportunities to lead publications, present research at national and international conferences, mentor graduate and undergraduate students, and contribute to grant development while advancing an independent research portfolio in a collaborative and supportive research environment. This is a full-time postdoctoral position with an anticipated start date of September 21, 2026 (flexible). The initial appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on funding availability and satisfactory performance.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in microbiology, biology, entomology, immunology, public health, or a closely related field.

• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent scientific research.

• Experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.

• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively while managing independent research projects.

• Participation in seasonal fieldwork, including small mammal trapping and tick collection.

• Valid driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:

• Tick-borne diseases, vector biology, wildlife disease ecology, or host-pathogen interactions.

• Small mammal trapping and handling.

• Tick collection and identification.

• Molecular biology techniques including quantitative real-time PCR, DNA/RNA extraction, next-generation sequencing, or deep amplicon sequencing.

• Immunological assays including ELISA, Meso Scale Discovery (MSD) multiplex assays, flow cytometry, single-cell profiling, or microscopy.

• Bioinformatics, statistical analysis (R or similar software), and genomic data analysis.

• Experience preparing manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals.

The successful candidate will work closely with Dr. Danielle Tufts and collaborate with investigators across the University of Pittsburgh. The position also provides opportunities to supervise graduate and undergraduate students and contribute to an active, multidisciplinary research program.

Applicants should submit a current CV, cover letter describing research interests, qualifications, and career goals, and contact information for three professional references to the Talent Center requisition number 26005507.

Applicants should submit a current CV, cover letter describing research interests, qualifications, and career goals, and contact information for three professional references to the Talent Center requisition number 26005507.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular
Campus: Pittsburgh
Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable
Required Attachments: Cover Letter, Curriculum Vitae, Other (see posting for additional details)

Assignment Category Full-time regular