Postdoctoral Scholar

Department Overview

A postdoctoral scientist position is available in Dr. Tafesse's lab in the Department of Molecular Microbiology & Immunology at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) in Portland, Oregon.

 

The research interest of the Tafesse lab includes 1) host lipid-pathogen interactions; 2) Identification of host factors essential for pathogenesis of viruses (flaviviruses, HIV and SARS-CoV-2) and M. tuberculosis using chemical probes; 3) generation of Alpaca-derived single-domain antibodies (also known as nanobodies) against the virulent factors of M. tuberculosis for diagnostic and/or therapeutic purposes. For more information please visit our website www.ohsu.edu/mmi/tafesse

 

We are seeking candidates who have recently completed PhD training with strong experience in both wet and dry lab techniques. The ideal candidate will have expertise that integrates computational, biochemical, and microbiology approaches. Our research focuses on developing nanobodies targeting bacterial and viral factors, utilizing advanced computational tools to innovate and optimize protein properties in diverse antigen design projects. We are looking for a hybrid scientist capable of bridging wet lab experiments with computational modeling to drive impactful discoveries. 

 

Key qualifications include:

• Proficiency in protein purification, engineering, and biochemical characterization.
• Hands-on experience with computational protein design tools, programs and methodologies.
• Familiarity with AI-driven techniques to characterize and optimize antibody/nanobody binding properties, accelerating advancements in protein engineering and vaccine design. 

 

Successful applicants will be generously offered a salary in line with OHSU's Postdoc scale and benefits, in addition to being a member of a high-quality research team and a collaborative research environment of OHSU.

 

Applicants should email CV, research statement, and the contact information of references to: tafesse@ohsu.edu

Function/Duties of Position

• Designing and conducting both wet and dry laboratory experiments.

  • Dry lab experience: Includes programming, utilizing machine learning libraries, and developing predictive models. 
  • Wet lab experience: Encompasses protein purification, biochemistry, microbiology, and cell biology techniques
• Generally maintaining laboratory and research space, laboratory notebooks and logs, etc.

• Participating in lab meetings, making contributions and submitting research for publication, submitting applications for research funding, presenting research at seminars, poster sessions and conferences.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in related field of study

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biology, Microbiology or Immunology or other fields of Life sciences
• Experience in R-programming, Python, SAS, and other statistical packages 

Additional Details

Work is generally 40 hours per week during normal working hours, however, some evening and weekend work is necessary on occasion. Additional safety training will be required to work with cell lines/ infectious bacteria or viruses/ working within a BSL-2 environment. Use of dosimeter and adherence to radiological safety ordinances is required. Working with laboratory animals is required.

All are welcome

Oregon Health & Science University values a diverse and culturally competent workforce. We are proud of our commitment to being an equal opportunity, affirmative action organization that does not discriminate against applicants on the basis of any protected class status, including disability status and protected veteran status. Individuals with diverse backgrounds and those who promote diversity and a culture of inclusion are encouraged to apply. To request reasonable accommodation contact the Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Department at 503-494-5148 or aaeo@ohsu.edu.