Postdoctoral Fellowship to Study Early Age Immunology/Immune Responses to Vaccines
Organization:
Cellular Immunology Group, Laboratory of Bacterial Polysaccharides, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research of the US FDA (CBER/FDA)
Background:
Our laboratory is investigating the immunobiological mechanisms responsible for the suboptimal vaccine responses in newborns and infants. The goal of these studies is to improve the efficacies of pediatric vaccines using adjuvants targeting the pathways responsible for the blunted immune responses.
Project description:
We are using neonatal mice from immunocompetent as well as various transgenic backgrounds to study the immune responses to diverse vaccine platforms including mRNA vaccines (SARS-CoV-2) and novel delivery systems. The analysis of immune response involves detailed investigation of the cellular and molecular mechanisms controlling the development of follicular helper T (Tfh) cells and germinal center B cells. The candidate will participate in experimental design, immunization and analyzing cellular and molecular responses to vaccines in addition to writing manuscripts and presenting her/his work in national and international meetings.
Relevant publications:
- IL6 suppresses vaccine responses in neonates by enhancing IL2 activity on T follicular helper cells. NPJ Vaccines. 2023 Nov 8;8(1):173.
- B cell receptor-induced IL-10 production from neonatal mouse CD19+CD43- cells depends on STAT5-Mediated IL-6 secretion. Elife. 2023 Feb 3:12:e83561.
- Sustained antigen delivery improves germinal center reaction and increases antibody responses in neonatal mice. NPJ Vaccines. Accepted for publication.
Qualifications:
- Doctoral degree in immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry or a related discipline (Qualified candidates with master’s degree will also be considered)
- Excellent command of multi-color flow cytometry and standard immunology techniques is required
- Experience with RNA-seq, bioinformatics and single cells sequencing is preferred
- Previous mouse handling experience is a must
- Ability to work with others in a team environment
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Publication record in peer-reviewed journals
Location/Facilities:
The laboratory, located on the White Oak Campus in building 52/72 (Silver Spring, MD), is equipped with standard immunology, biochemistry, and molecular biology equipment. CBER core facilities include Flow cytometry, Microscopy and Imaging, NextGen sequencing, Oligonucleotide synthesis, Peptide synthesis, Mass spectrometry analysis, among others.
How to apply:
Qualified candidates should send curriculum vitae and a list of 3 references with contact information to Mustafa Akkoyunlu, Mustafa.Akkoyunlu@fda.hhs.gov