An NIH funded postdoctoral position is available immediately in the laboratory of Dr. Laura Snell at the Indiana University School of Medicine in Indianapolis, Indiana. The laboratory studies the mechanisms by which chronic viral infections suppress antiviral immunity and drive T cell exhaustion to facilitate viral persistence. We also have a major interest in how chronic viral infections suppress secondary immune responses to enhance the susceptibility to and severity of multiple co-infections and cancers. We have previously demonstrated that chronic viral infection decreases the activation of antigen presenting cells (APCs), resulting in the skewing of newly primed T cell responses for decreased immunity to virus and secondary tumors (see Snell et al. Immunity 2018, Snell et al. Cell Reports 2016).
This position focuses on determining the mechanisms by which chronic viral infections drive APC dysfunction / exhaustion, and will use cutting edge technologies to define how these cells become transcriptionally and metabolically reshaped across time. This understanding will have important implications not only for immunity to chronic viruses, but also for subsequent immune responses to co-infections and tumors.

The candidate will work with Dr. Snell and her team in a dynamic and collaborative lab environment in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at Indiana University School of Medicine. In addition to conducting research, the candidate will also be expected to prepare manuscripts, fellowship applications, present findings at internal and external meetings, and help train new grad students / lab members. Salary is commensurate with NIH rates based on experience

IU School of Medicine is committed to being a welcoming campus community and we seek candidates whose research, teaching, and community engagement efforts contribute to robust learning and working environments for all students, staff, and faculty. We invite individuals who will join us in our mission to improve health equity and well-being for all throughout the state of Indiana.

Indianapolis is the capital and most populous city in the State of Indiana. It is growing economically thanks to a strong corporate base anchored by the life sciences. Indiana is home to one of the nation’s largest concentrations of health sciences companies. Indianapolis has a sophisticated blend of charm and culture with a wonderful balance of business and leisure. The growing residential base is supported by rich amenities and quality of life – the city possesses a variety of professional sports, arts venues, and outdoor recreation areas. Residents of this dynamic city and surrounding suburbs enjoy leading educational systems and top-ranked universities paired with a diverse population. Indianapolis International Airport is a top-ranked international airport that has been named “Best Airport in North America” by Airports Council International for many years. For additional information on life in

Indy: https://faculty.medicine.iu.edu/relocation

Faculty Affairs and Professional Development | IU School of Medicine

A recent PhD in immunology, virology, or a related field with a solid publication track record including at least 1 first author publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Gerri Herron
HR Coordinator
geherron@iu.edu

Be highly motivated with a genuine interest and curiosity for science and a strong understanding of immunology.
Proficiency in multicolor / spectral flow cytometry is required.
Experience with mouse handling and infection models is preferred, but not required.

Experience analyzing NGS data (scRNA-seq etc.) is an asset, but not required.

Ability to work independently as well as collegially within a team