Post-Doc Research Associate - Cameron/Arnold Lab

The Cameron-Arnold laboratory in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine in Chapel Hill, NC, is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral research associate to investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of RNA virus genome replication. Our laboratory has established research programs supported by the National Institutes of Health that focus on picornaviruses, alphaviruses, and coronaviruses. These programs seek to understand how viral and host proteins coordinate viral RNA synthesis, replication-complex assembly, genome maintenance, and virus multiplication.

Research will integrate molecular biology, cell biology, genetics, and virology to investigate the mechanisms governing viral genome replication and the interactions between viral replication machinery and the host cell. Areas of investigation include the regulation of genomic and subgenomic RNA synthesis, formation and function of membrane-associated replication complexes, viral RNA recombination, and the contributions of viral and host factors to genome replication and virus assembly. These studies will complement ongoing biochemical and biophysical investigations of viral replication proteins and macromolecular complexes.

The successful candidate will develop and pursue research projects within the laboratory’s established areas of investigation, working collaboratively with faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and scientific staff. Our overarching objective is to advance fundamental knowledge of RNA virus replication and identify mechanisms that may be exploited for antiviral therapeutic development. The position provides opportunities for scientific independence, interdisciplinary collaboration, publication, and professional development in preparation for an independent research career.

PhD in Microbiology, Virology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related discipline.

Prior research experience in molecular virology, molecular and cellular biology, or RNA biology. Experience with mammalian cell culture, molecular cloning, viral replicon systems, quantitative RNA analysis, fluorescence microscopy, or cell-based studies of virus replication is desirable. Candidates demonstrating strong experimental skills, scientific curiosity, effective communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.