Postdoctoral Scholar - Yap Lab

Location

Chicago, Illinois

Department: MED-Microbiology-Immunology
Salary/Grade: RES/

We are looking to backfill a postdoctoral scholar position in early 2026 to study various aspects of Staphylococcus aureus pathogenesis, antibiotic resistance, and RNA synthesis and degradation. The specific project will depend on the applicant's interests. Previous training in RNA or ribosome biology, enzymology, or structural biology is a plus. Candidates with backgrounds in structural biology or bioinformatics who wish to gain wet‑lab experience are also welcome.

• Lead experimental studies to dissect RNA degradation pathways and mechanism of antibiotic resistance in the human pathogen Staphylococcus aureus using cutting‑edge techniques, including CRISPR‑Cas, omics and Nanopore sequencing, enabling
• Analyze complex multi‑omics datasets to identify RNase and antibiotic targets. Findings will be essential to guide future research directions and experimental designs.
• Contribute to the writing of research manuscripts and grant proposals, enhancing the scientific output and securing new funding for continued research.
• Disseminate research findings at the international and national conferences, increasing visibility of the department and institution.
• Translate basic research fundings into potential clinical applications by identifying genetic vulnerabilities in Staphylococcus aureus, contributing to the long‑term goal of developing novel anti‑virulence therapies.
• Mentor junior researchers, including Ph.D. rotational students, enhancing teaching and training mission.

Performs other duties as assigned.

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biology, Biophysics or a closely related field.
• No more than 18 months of postdoc experience.

• PCR, Western/Northern Blots, RNA‑seq, CRISPR‑Cas9 technologies, bacterial genetics, enjoy scientific reading and writing.

• Ph.D. in microbiology, biochemistry and molecular biology

• Proficient in modern molecular biology techniques, Previous training in RNA/ribosome biology, enzymology and structural biology is a plus.

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