Research Scientist - Hawse Lab

The Department of Immunology conducts exceptional and impactful research that uncovers new mechanisms and pathways of the immune system to translate discoveries to improve human health by combating disease, enhancing vaccination, and controlling cancer and autoimmunity; to incorporate and develop cutting-edge technologies, including systems and computational approaches; and to train the next generation of immunologists in a collegial and dynamic research environment.

The University of Pittsburgh, Department of Immunology, is seeking a qualified Research Scientist, Ph.D. Required plus 5 years of work experience.

This position will focus on studying research projects concerning signaling and T cell differentiation. This position will conduct scientific research using a combination of both in vitro and in vivo methodologies to comprehensively investigate the underlying mechanisms involved in autoimmune disease development. The in vitro component of the study will focus on the isolation and culture of naïve CD4 T cells obtained from the lymph nodes and spleens of C57BL/6J mice. These cells will be cultured under Th17-polarizing conditions to promote their differentiation into Th17 cells. Th17 cells are a specialized subset of CD4+ T helper cells that have been extensively implicated in the pathogenesis and progression of various autoimmune disorders, making them a critical target for this investigation.

This position requires research experience designing and developing of in vitro and in vivo experiments in animal models of autoimmunity diseases.  This position should have the technical skills such as primary cell culture (T cells), RT-PCR, western blot, and will perform the collection, interpretation, discussion and presentation of scientific data.

This position will prepare manuscripts, research grant proposals, research articles and publications, and give presentations on their research findings.  This position will train Research Technicians, Postdoctoral Associates, Graduate Student Researchers and Pitt undergrad students.

These tasks require a skilled scientist who can independently work with minimum consultation with the principal investigator.

Conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates project development in collaboration with other specialists.

1.  Perform cell isolation and culture of naïve CD4 T cells obtained from the lymph nodes and spleens of C57BL/6J mice. 

2.  Must design and develop in vitro and in vivo experiments in animal models of autoimmunity diseases. 

Minimal