How to Apply

Individuals who are interested in this position should send a cover letter, stating their career objectives and research interests, together with their CV, including names & contact details of three references to Prof. Cheng at chengwe@umich.edu, and indicate "Postdoc Application" in the subject of their emails.

Summary

A full-time postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Wei Cheng laboratory at the College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. We seek highly motivated and dedicated individuals to participate in our study on mechanisms of B cell responses to viral-like particulate antigens. The Cheng lab has pioneered the biochemical synthesis of synthetic viral-like structures for understanding of viral immunogenecity. We are using these synthetic structures as model antigens to investigate how they activate B cells to turn on antibody production, and how the affinity and duration of antibodies together with memory B cell responses may be modulated by the individual as well as collective attributes of these synthetic structures. The outcome from this study is expected to lay foundations for the design of next-generation vaccines.

Responsibilities*

As part of this position, the candidate is expected to learn and master our technique in biochemical synthesis of viral-like structures, and use these structures to carry out in-depth immunological and mechanistic studies. The candidate will help Dr. Cheng to prepare and characterize these structures, administer mouse immunization via different routes, collect organ/blood/fluid and conduct antibody analysis, and analyze experimental results under the direct supervision of Dr. Cheng.

Required Qualifications*

The candidate is expected to have a solid background in immunology or other related quantitative science.

Desired Qualifications*

The candidate is expected to use quantitative and analytical skills to advantage, pay attention to details, and be an independent thinker.

Background Screening

The University of Michigan conducts background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background checks. Background checks are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act.

U-M EEO/AA Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer.

U-M COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

COVID-19 vaccinations, including one booster when eligible, are required for all University of Michigan students, faculty and staff across all campuses, including Michigan Medicine. This includes those working remotely and temporary workers. More information on this new policy is available on the U-M Health Response website or the UM-Dearborn and UM-Flint websites.