Assistant Research Professor

Indiana University; Indianapolis (IN); On-site; USD 95,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Indiana University in Indianapolis invites applications for an Assistant Research Professor in the Yang Laboratory within IUSM - Microbiology & Immunology to study how Lyme disease pathogens use cyclic dinucleotide second messengers to survive in tick vectors and mammalian hosts.

The role emphasizes designing and executing a range of assays (DNA/RNA/Protein work, mouse infections, ELISAs, microscopy), supervising staff, managing inventories, and contributing to regulatory documentation and

Qualifications

• PhD or MD required.
• Five years postdoctoral research experience in immunology and bacterial pathogens.
• At least five years Lyme disease research experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and perform diverse lab tests including DNA/RNA/Protein work, mouse infections, ELISAs, and microscopy; contribute to grants and papers.
• Lab management and coordination: supervise staff; ensure safety, SOPs, budgets, and onboarding.
• Oversee inventory, animal care, equipment maintenance, and regulatory documentation.

Skills

Research design

Lab management

Grant writing

Scientific communication

Education

PhD or MD

Tools

PCR

ELISA

Microscopy

DNA/RNA work

Job description

Title Assistant Research Professor Specific Title Assistant Research Professor Appointment Type Scientist Track Faculty Department IUSM - Microbiology & Immunology Campus IU School of Medicine Indianapolis Position Summary

The Yang Laboratory investigates bacterial infections and host immune responses. This position will focus on understanding how Lyme disease pathogens uses newly identified cyclic dinucleotide second messengers to survive in tick vectors and mammalian hosts. The research will also explore host-directed therapeutic strategies to prevent or treat Lyme disease.

Duties and Responsibilities

• 70% Independently design and perform a wide variety of laboratory and research tests using standard and special procedures, equipment, and examinations. Techniques include, but not limited to, DNA/RNA/Protein work (cloning, PCR, protein purification), mouse infections, ELISAs, and microscopy. Writing grants and research papers.
• 20% Lab management and coordination: Supervise research technician(s), postdoctoral fellows, graduate/undergraduate student workers, and hourly employees in standard procedures, methods, and techniques and serve as a resource to laboratory personnel. Coordinate assignments of laboratory personnel and monitor completion. Train all lab personnel as needed and ensure laboratory compliance with safety guidelines through the creation, implementation, and enforcement of standard operating procedures. Coordinate with international partner labs. Assistance with regulatory documents (e.g. IBC, IACUC, IRB) and MTAs. Use discretion to responsibly work within defined budgets. Contribute to budget planning. Conduct recruitment and onboarding of staff.
• 10% Oversee the proper maintenance and organization of freezer/liquid nitrogen inventories. Manage reagent inventory and ordering of supplies as necessary. Oversee management of animal care, inventory, procedures, and processes. Oversee the set-up and maintenance of lab equipment. Oversee the disposal of hazardous waste. Monitor compliance and manage operations to maintain compliance at all levels.

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

Basic Qualifications

A PhD or MD degree is required. Candidates must also have five years of postdoctoral research experience in immunology and bacterial pathogens.

Additional Qualifications

At lease five years of research experience in Lyme disease is preferred.

Department Contact for Questions

Gerri Herron
[e-mail]

Special Instructions Priority Application Review Deadline Expected Start Date 09/01/2026 Posting Number IUSM-02473-2026