Multiple postdoctoral positions are available immediately to study HIV and related animal model vaccine development at the University of Pittsburgh’s Center for Vaccine Research in the laboratory of Dr. Ronald Montelaro.   The candidate should be familiar with basic techniques in molecular virology and immunology.  Previous research experience in lentivirus/retrovirus systems is highly desirable.  Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States.  The Center for Vaccine Research is housed in a new state-of-the-art facility that has research programs focusing on AIDS and emerging infectious diseases and is part of a larger research community at the University of Pittsburgh that currently ranks sixth nationally in NIH funding.

Although there have been tremendous advances in the diagnosis and treatment of many medical conditions, infectious diseases remain the leading cause of deaths world-wide. Few discoveries in biomedical research are as important as those that revolve around the development of new diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines for infectious agents that pose risks to global public health and global security. The Center for Vaccine Research (CVR) at the University of Pittsburgh was established to address this imperative.

The CVR is housed in the new, state-of-the-art Biomedical Science Tower 3 (BST3), which is located on the main campus of the University of Pittsburgh — one of the nation’s leading research institutions. The CVR is composed of two components — the Vaccine Research Laboratory (VRL) and the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL) — and boasts 32,000 square feet of laboratory and office space.

Building on the University’s existing strengths in the study of SARS, AIDS, influenza, immunology, and drug discovery, the CVR engages a cross-section of scientists from an array of disciplines in infectious disease research. Under the leadership of director Donald S. Burke, MD, and co-director Ronald C. Montelaro, PhD, the CVR plans to expand its footprint in the area of vaccine research and development by expanding its team of world-class investigators.

The CVR activities span basic research on molecular mechanisms of infectious diseases to the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines. Moreover, the CVR supports interdisciplinary research efforts across the University and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) focused on emerging infections that threaten human health.

Visionary and capable leadership; a balance of basic, translational, and clinical research; emphasis on faculty interaction; and the synergistic environment of the BST3 are among the unique features that contribute to the unparalleled potential of this world-class research center!

Application:
Interested individuals should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae, and their name, address, e-mail and telephone number for three references to Jodi Craigo, Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, 9017 BST3, 3501 Fifth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15261.

Tel: 412-624-4610

E-mail: craigoj@pitt.edu