[Employment] Postdoctoral Position in post-transcriptional RNA regulation and viral-host interactions (Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research)

[sarah.wikus from googlemail.com]

A postdoctoral position is available immediately at the Whitehead
Institute for Biomedical Research to study how poxviruses (including
vaccinia, monkeypox and smallpox) manipulate regulation of gene
expression within the host cell.  The successful candidate will
investigate poxviral modulation of intracellular host processes,
particularly interactions with host mRNA regulation.
Our research program uses poxviruses as a tool to probe host cell
mechanisms for regulating host cell mRNA transcription, translation
and decay.  In addition, we utilize base pair resolution mapping to
simultaneously study both poxvirus and host transcription and
translation.  We have previously reported development and molecular
characterization of the first animal model of smallpox in PNAS.
The successful candidate will develop and apply new and existing
techniques in molecular biology, confocal microscopy, genomics and
protein biochemistry to study pathogen-host cell interactions and RNA
biochemistry.  The ideal candidate will be highly motivated and have
recently obtained a Ph.D. or M.D. degree with a strong background in
biochemistry, immunology, virology or cell/molecular biology.  This
candidate will possess a good attitude, be enthusiastic, and be able
to work independently and well with a team.  Strong skills in protein
and RNA biochemistry and molecular biology are essential.  Hands on
experience with cell culture and molecular biology/biochemical
techniques, such as cloning, Northern and Western blots,
immunoprecipitation and protein purification is required.  Previous
work with mRNA regulation (transcription, decay, translation) is
highly desirable but not required.
Interested candidates should forward a CV with a publication list, a
one-page cover letter detailing research interests and previous
experience and three references to:
Dilly Wilson
Senior Human Resources Specialist
resumes from wi.mit.edu
5 Cambridge Center
Cambridge, MA 02142
Tel: 617-258-6725

Our laboratory http://www.whitehead.mit.edu/research/fellows/rubins_website/
is located at the Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research.  The
Whitehead Institute attracts outstanding young researchers and
provides an environment that nurtures them, with opportunities to
interact with world-renowned faculty members at Whitehead/MIT and
throughout the Boston area.  The Scientist's March 2008 annual survey
reported that Whitehead Institute is among the top 15 places to work
for postdoctoral researchers.  In January 2008, Whitehead unveiled an
innovative plan that sets a new standard for salary and benefits for
postdoctoral scientists. For more information about being a postdoc at
Whitehead, please visit http://www.whitehead.mit.edu/research/postdoc/home_ext.php?p=benes_ext