Description
Applications are being invited for a Postdoctoral Researcher position in the Ainslie Lab at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). The position will be conducted under the supervision of Professor Kristy Ainslie, who serves as the Fred Eshelman Distinguished Professor and Director at UNC. This postdoctoral opportunity is designed for candidates with strong academic training and research expertise in immunology, biochemistry, engineering, or related fields. The role is embedded within the autoimmune tolerance research program, which is a major area of focus in the Ainslie Lab. The primary research emphasis will be on multiple sclerosis, a debilitating autoimmune condition that requires innovative approaches for treatment and management. Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate prior research accomplishments, including at least one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal. Research techniques that will be of particular importance include immune assays, flow cytometry, animal models, ELISAs, and immune cell isolation. The appointment is initially being offered for two years, with the possibility of gaining valuable experience in both in vitro and in vivo experimentation. This position will provide comprehensive training opportunities ranging from formulation design to preclinical evaluation. Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply by submitting a CV, cover letter, and references directly to Professor Kristy Ainslie via email.
Responsibilities
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be engaged in cutting-edge research aimed at developing innovative therapies for autoimmune diseases, specifically through the exploration of tolerance-inducing approaches for multiple sclerosis. A two-year appointment is being offered, with opportunities for hands-on training ranging from formulation design to in vivo evaluation.
- Active participation in ongoing research projects in autoimmune tolerance and multiple sclerosis models.
- Application of immunological and biochemical techniques, including flow cytometry, immune assays, ELISAs, cell culture, and animal models.
- Contribution to the preparation of publications, conference presentations, and collaborative studies.
- Engagement with interdisciplinary teams to translate research outcomes into impactful discoveries.
Qualification
Qualifications
- A PhD degree (or near completion) in immunology, biochemistry, biomedical engineering, or a related discipline: Applicants are expected to have completed, or be in the final stages of completing, a doctoral degree in a relevant scientific discipline. This ensures that candidates have a strong academic foundation and the technical expertise required to contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge research in autoimmune tolerance and multiple sclerosis.
- Demonstrated research expertise in flow cytometry, immune cell isolation, EAE models, or related immunological techniques: Hands-on experience with advanced immunological methods such as flow cytometry, experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) models, or immune cell isolation is highly valued. These skills are essential for investigating complex mechanisms of immune regulation and for advancing experimental therapies in autoimmune diseases.
- At least one first-author publication in a peer-reviewed English-language journal, or a manuscript nearing submission: Evidence of scholarly productivity through a first-author publication demonstrates the candidate’s ability to conduct independent research, analyze data rigorously, and communicate scientific findings effectively. A manuscript in advanced stages of preparation will also be considered as proof of research readiness.
- Strong collaborative skills, scientific curiosity, and the ability to work independently in a rigorous research environment: Beyond technical skills, the position requires a motivated individual who thrives both as a team player and as an independent researcher. Successful candidates must demonstrate intellectual curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving in an interdisciplinary lab setting.
Benefits & Professional Development
- Hands-on training spanning the research pipeline from formulation design to preclinical evaluation.
- Mentorship and guidance under Professor Kristy Ainslie, a leader in pharmaceutical sciences and immunology.
- Opportunities for professional growth, networking, and contribution to high-impact publications.
- A supportive research environment at UNC Chapel Hill, one of the leading institutions in the United States.
Application Process
Interested candidates are being asked to submit the following documents:
Prospective applicants are invited to prepare a comprehensive application package to demonstrate their academic background, research experience, and suitability for the postdoctoral role. The submission of all required documents is essential for consideration.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): A detailed CV should be included, highlighting academic qualifications, research experience, technical skills, publications, conference presentations, and any relevant teaching or mentoring activities. This document will serve as the primary overview of the applicant’s career achievements to date.
- Cover Letter outlining research interests and career goals: Applicants must submit a tailored cover letter that clearly expresses their motivation for joining the Ainslie Lab. The letter should articulate the candidate’s research interests, explain how their expertise aligns with the lab’s ongoing work in autoimmune tolerance, and outline long-term career aspirations in the field of immunology or biomedical sciences.
- Contact details of references: Candidates are expected to provide the names and contact information of professional or academic references who can speak to their qualifications, research abilities, and potential for success as a postdoctoral researcher. These references may be contacted to provide confidential evaluations.
Applications should be sent directly to Professor Kristy Ainslie via email at ainsliek@email.unc.edu with the subject line: Postdoctoral Application – Ainslie Lab. All application materials must be compiled and submitted electronically via email to Professor Kristy Ainslie. To ensure proper review and efficient processing, applicants should use the subject line “Postdoctoral Application – Ainslie Lab” when submitting their documents.
Further details about the lab can be found on the official website: https://ainslielab.web.unc.edu/
Applicants are encouraged to explore the official Ainslie Lab website for more information about ongoing research, publications, and the lab’s broader mission. Reviewing this information will help candidates better understand the lab’s research direction and refine their applications accordingly.
Application Deadline: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Early submissions are strongly encouraged. There is no fixed deadline for this opportunity, as applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled. However, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible to maximize their chances of securing the role, as review and selection may begin immediately upon receipt of applications.
Further details and application info here.
