Title:  Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral position: Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV) vaccine development

We are seeking a postdoctoral fellow to work on a unique and highly collaborative project between Baylor College of Medicine and the Houston zoo. The project involves the study of a newly recognized pathogen for Asian elephants known as Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus (EEHV), which can cause lethal hemorrhagic disease, particularly in juvenile Asian elephants.  

• Refine and implement serological and cell-immunity-based assays towards the evaluation of anti-EEHV vaccines in small animal models.  
• Conduct basic immunology and immunological research.
• Conduct reserach with basic skills with molecular biology techniques such as cloning, qPCR, and protein expression, particularly with recombinant vectors.
• Provide occasional backup for EEHV qPCR testing that our laboratory provides to the Houston zoo. 
• Work with a diverse team.
• Plan, direct and conduct specialized and advanced research experiments.
• Evaluate and analyze data.
• May establish new research protocols and procedures.
• Summarize research findings and publish results in research journals. 
• May be responsible for laboratory operations.
• May supervise research staff.

• Ph.D. and/or DVM 
• Experience Level: 0-3 years of experience

• Knowledge and experience with basic immunology and immunological methodologies is essential.
• Basic skills with molecular biology techniques such as cloning, qPCR, and protein expression, particularly with , recombinant vectors, is desirable. 
• This research project requires frequent interactions with zoo personnel who manage the care and environment for the elephants at the zoo, so good interpersonal skills, an ability to work with a diverse team, and a general interest in animal health are essential.