Postdoctoral Scientist- Waldor Lab

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI); Boston (MA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 80,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Mentorship from PI

Authorship opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

HHMI's Brigham and Women's Hospital lab led by Dr. Matt Waldor seeks a Postdoctoral Scientist to study host responses to bacterial infection, including Vibrio cholerae and Enterobacteriaceae, focusing on virulence and immunity. You will conduct independent research and contribute to ongoing projects in a collaborative environment.

The role offers mentorship from Dr. Waldor, opportunities for authorship on publications, and professional development within HHMI's biomedical community.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in biological sciences required.
• Preference for microbiology or immunology focus.
• 0–4 years of post‑doctoral experience acceptable.
• Expertise in standard molecular biology techniques is required.
• Experience with bacteria and host–pathogen interactions a plus.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to learn quickly and work independently and as part of a team.
• Comfort working with diverse colleagues at all levels of training.
• Strong integrity, interpersonal skills, and ownership over your work.

Responsibilities

• Lead a postdoctoral project studying host responses to bacterial infection.
• Perform experiments and manage an independent research project.
• Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and contribute to team goals.

Skills

Molecular biology

Scientific communication

Independent & collaborative work

Education

Ph.D. in biological sciences

Job description

Primary Work Address

300 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115

About the Role

Dr. Matt Waldor’s lab at Brigham and Women’s Hospital investigates the evolution, cell biology, and virulence of bacterial pathogens, including Vibrio cholerae, enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli, Shigella, Salmonella spp., and Listeria monocytogenes. They take interdisciplinary approaches to investigate the underlying mechanisms of virulence and the host response to infection. They also aim to translate their knowledge into development of new vaccines and therapeutics. More information about the lab’s research can be found by visiting https://www.waldorlab.com/

The Postdoctoral Scientist role’s primary focus will be to conduct research activities and manage an independent project involving the study of host responses to bacterial infection in support of the lab’s goals. This is an excellent opportunity for passionate, driven candidates who have demonstrated the ability to work both independently and collaboratively and have a solid track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.

What we provide

• A competitive compensation package with comprehensive health and welfare benefits. Joining the vibrant Brigham & Women’s Hospital and Harvard microbiology and immunology research communities.
• Direct mentorship from Dr. Waldor and the opportunity to mentor more junior lab members.
• Professional development and growth including opportunities for authorship on research publications.

What you bring

• For the Postdoctoral Associate track – a Ph.D. in the biological sciences is required.
• A focus on microbiology or immunology is preferred.
• 0-4 years of post-doc experience acceptable.
• Expertise in standard molecular biology techniques is required.
• Previous experience working with bacteria, particularly with host-pathogen interactions, would be a plus.
• Ability to learn quickly and to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work well with a wide variety of people from all backgrounds and at all levels of training.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High level of integrity and excellent interpersonal skills.
• Positive demeanor with a problem-solving, resilient approach to both research and day-to-day lab activities.
• Ambition, self-motivation, and a strong sense of intellectual responsibility and ownership over your work.

Please Note: This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word “may,” the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are “essential functions” of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our Benefits at HHMI site to learn more.

Hiring Pay Range

$70,000.00 - $80,500.00 Pay Type: Annual

Equal Opportunity Employer

HHMI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We use E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all new hires.

Why HHMI

Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is an independent, ever-evolving philanthropy that supports basic biomedical scientists and educators with the potential for transformative impact. We make long-term investments in people, not just projects, because we believe in the power of individuals to make breakthroughs over time. To move science forward we need a diverse collection of talents, expertise, and backgrounds in scientific research and science education, as well as communications, finance, human resources, information technology, investments, law, and operations. At HHMI, we encourage collaborative and results-driven working styles and offer an adaptable environment where employees can do their best work. What makes us strong is the diversity of our perspectives. We work to promote a culture of inclusion in our work environments and across the greater scientific community. To find more information about us and the steps we’re taking to make HHMI a more inclusive organization, visit our About Us page.

Additional Information

Contact us at [e-mail] if you require an accommodation related to completing the job application. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations. Applicants have rights under federal employment laws. For more information about your rights as an applicant, please review these posters: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), Know Your Rights, and Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA).