Research Scientist, Senior

Be You.

TheLuftig Labat Duke University School of Medicine's Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology investigates the molecular mechanisms by which Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) establishes latency, switches to the lytic cycle, and drives human cancers. EBV is one of the most prevalent human herpesviruses, latently infecting virtually all adults worldwide, and contributes to approximately 2% of all cancers globally. These include B-cell lymphomas and epithelial malignancies like gastric and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. We evaluate the relative contributions of viral oncoproteins, host signaling pathways, and the immune microenvironment in determining infected B-cell fate decisions, with a particular focus on transcriptional regulation, metabolic reprogramming, and epigenetic control. We leverage cutting-edge, cross-disciplinary approaches including single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, flow cytometry, and cell-based and pre-clinical animal models. We aim to define fundamental molecular circuits driving viral-induced lymphomagenesis and identify vulnerabilities for therapeutic intervention. The Luftig Lab includes postdoctoral fellows, PhD graduate students, MD/PhD trainees, and research scientists, and is embedded within the broader Duke Cancer Institute and Duke Center for Virology.

Minimum Requirements:

A PhD degree is required.

Work requires a minimum of ten years of postdoctoral experience conducting scientific research. Multiple publications and notable significant contributions to scientific research.

Preferred Qualifications:

Prior experience in molecular genetics, virology, cell culture, DNA and RNA library preparation for next generations sequencing. Proficient in basic computing software and web-based applications (e.g., Microsoft Office products).

Be Bold.

Position Description:

The Luftig laboratory seeks a Senior Research Scientist with extensive training and experience in molecular genetics and virology to support the scientific activities of the research group focused on Epstein-Barr virus pathogenesis. The Senior Research Scientist will contribute to 1) wet lab experimentation on EBV and cell culture, 2) generating high quality data for the study of virus/host interactions using multiple modalities, 3) catalyzing the work of the research group through molecular genetic and next-generation sequencing work, 4) analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of results, and 5) mentorship of trainees in particular training in the aforementioned skills.

Work Responsibilities:

Scientific Research

• Performs key experiments with in-depth molecular and cellular characterization of EBV infection in diverse models.
• Develop molecular genetic tools within the laboratory for such experiments and collaboration within the group.
• Facilitate the use and develop new approaches to single cell based modalities and next-generation sequencing analysis for the group.
• Uses expertise in genetics of virus/host interaction research design to develop protocols or research proposals. Provides significant contribution on peer reviewed publications or conference presentations.
• Seeks out, integrates, and applies new analytical and technical knowledge towards innovation and performance improvement, as relevant. Ensures continuous evaluation of technology solutions for the research group.

Project Development

• Provides significant intellectual contribution to the research program, including in developing the scientific content of research proposals and manuscripts. Establishes and maintains internal (Duke) and external communications to ensure successful research partnerships.

Leadership and Professionalism

• Keeps current with research updates and advances in the scientific area, considers the impact on the broad research portfolio, and oversees necessary implementation.
• Uses advanced subject matter expertise in the research to solve complex problems or foster innovation across the broad research group.
• Communicates effectively with others, regardless of reporting relationship, to accomplish shared work objectives. Uses expertise in research design to develop protocols or research proposals.
• Serves as an expert resource to faculty, trainees, and staff for the development of protocols for complex experimental studies, in particular using molecular genetics techniques and next generation library work.

Choose Duke.

Join our award-winning team as identified by Forbes magazine as America's Best Large Employer 2024 and be part of an inclusive culture that values excellence, innovation, and discovery. As an organization, we have exciting opportunities to be forward-thinking leaders in our field. We want talented individuals to join us, examine our current operations, and create innovative solutions that will revolutionize and enhance the way we approach our work.

Duke University is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide and is renowned for its cutting-edge research across disciplines.

Beyond the engaging work, you'll also benefit from Duke's competitive benefits package including health insurance plans, generous paid time off, retirement programs with employer contributions, tuition assistance for employees and their children, and more.

Diversity Statements:

Duke is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.