Assistant Project Scientist - Hartigan-O'Connor Lab
Join the Hartigan-O'Connor Lab at UC Davis to investigate host-virus interactions and gammaherpesvirus biology.
Best for:Best for postdoctoral researchers with expertise in virology, molecular biology, proximity labeling, and functional genomics.
Overview
The Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology within the School of Medicine at the University of California, Davis seeks an Assistant Project Scientist to join the Hartigan-O'Connor Lab. The successful candidate will drive research programs focused on modeling host-virus interactions, proximity-labeling proteomics, and viral epigenetics. Responsibilities include experimental design, supervising junior researchers, publishing findings, and assisting with grant preparation. Applicants must possess a PhD in Biological Sciences and significant postdoctoral research experience in gammaherpesvirus research.
What you'll do
- Conduct collaborative research investigating host-virus interactions, viral replication, and vaccine responses in animal models.
- Design specific research projects, select appropriate methodologies, and troubleshoot experimental challenges.
- Supervise and mentor students and technicians regarding technical aspects of research and data analysis.
- Perform proximity-labeling experiments and apply expertise in functional genomics and viral epigenetics.
- Prepare and publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals independently or in collaboration with team members.
- Assist with writing grant proposals, progress reports, and budget modifications for federal and state funding agencies.
- Participate in professional societies, attend scientific conferences, and serve as a reviewer for research proposals and publications.
Requirements
Degree required: PhD in Biological Sciences
Language: English
Instruction: English
Publications: Publication of research in peer-reviewed journals as part of ongoing laboratory duties.
- At least four years of postdoctoral experience in gammaherpesvirus research
- Prior research experience in viral epigenetics, chromatin regulation, and host-virus interactions
- Hands-on expertise in recombinant viral engineering and proximity-labeling proteomics
- Proficiency in functional genomics techniques
- Training and experience in basic data analysis using R or Python
- Must be legally able to work in the United States as established by the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986
- Must disclose prior administrative or judicial decisions regarding workplace misconduct within the last seven years
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-14 (America/Los_Angeles) · open until filled
Interested candidates must submit their application materials through the UC Davis online recruitment portal. A complete application requires an updated CV, cover letter, signed authorization to release information form, and three to five letters of reference. Applications received by the initial review date will receive full consideration.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research statement
- Teaching statement
- Authorization to Release Information Form
- 3-5 letters of reference
Contact
Amy Saini
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