Research Associate-Fixed Term

Michigan State University; East Lansing (MI); On-site; USD 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Michigan State University invites applications for a Research Associate (Post-Doc) in the laboratory of Dr. Zhiyong Xi, within the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology.

The appointment is full-time, 12-month fixed-term with potential extension based on progress and funding. The project focuses on artificial symbiosis between Wolbachia and Anopheles malaria vectors and transinfection in Anopheles.

Qualifications

• PhD in medical entomology, parasitology, microbiology/immunology or related field with strong genetics background.
• Strong quantitative and communication skills.
• Experience with BSL-2 labs is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments independently.
• Document results for presentations, manuscripts, and grants.

Skills

Genetics

Quantitative skills

Communication skills

Education

PhD

Job description

Position Summary

A Research Associate (Post-Doc) position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Zhiyong Xi in the Department of Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology at Michigan State University. The position is available starting immediately with three years of funding guaranteed with a possibility of an extension based on progress and performance. The main project is to work on cutting-edge research to study the artificial symbiosis between the endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia and Anopheles malaria vectors. The project will center around establishing Wolbachia transinfection in Anopheles and dissecting genetic and environmental factors shaping Wolbachia-Anopheles symbiosis (See here: DOI: 10.1126/science.1236192; https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pntd.0012523 ). This includes exploring the interactions between various Wolbachia strains and Anopheles under diverse genetic backgrounds and environmental conditions. The applicant is expected to design and conduct experiments independently and clearly document results for use in presentations, manuscripts and grants. This is a full-time, 12-month fixed-term position with reappointment contingent on satisfactory performance and available funding.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.

Required Degree

Doctorate

Minimum Requirements

The applicant must have a PhD in the area of medical entomology, parasitology, microbiology/immunology/molecular biology or a related field and have a strong background in genetics. Strong quantitative and communication skills are required.

Desired Qualifications

Previous experience working in a BSL2 is desired but not required. Experience with developing Wolbachia for mosquito-borne disease control is preferred although not required.

Required Application Materials

Please submit a cover letter, CV, and the names and contact information for three references.

Review of Applications Begins On

09/15/2025

Summary of Health Risks

• Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions.


• Work with animals or unfixed animal tissue.

Website

https://mgi.natsci.msu.edu/

MSU Statement

Michigan State University has been advancing the common good with uncommon will for more than 160 years. One of the top research universities in the world, MSU pushes the boundaries of discovery and forges enduring partnerships to solve the most pressing global challenges while providing life-changing opportunities to a diverse and inclusive academic community through more than 200 programs of study in 17 degree-granting colleges.