The laboratory of Dr. Casey Chen and Dr. Pinghui Feng in the Section of Infection and Immunity, Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, located in the University Park Campus, is seeking two postdoctoral scholars to investigate (1) the role of virus-bacteria interactions in infectious diseases, and (2) mechanisms and regulation of protein deamidation in immune response and tumorigenesis. Research in the Lab is centered on understanding the roles of protein deamidation in fundamental biological processes, such as immune response and viral infection, and the etiopathogenesis of periodontitis. We explore herpesvirus infection as a model system to probe the role of protein deamidation, entailing cutting-edge technology, including proteomics, metabolomics, RNA sequencing, conditional knockout mouse models, as well as synergism between bacteria and viruses in the initiation and/or propagation of oral infections. The lab is a part of a multi-disciplinary and highly interactive team in the Norris Dental Science Center. Postdoctoral fellows are expected to conduct independent and challenging research under the PI’s close supervision and work in a highly collaborative manner.

We are seeking self-motivated and goal-driven postdoctoral candidates, with a PhD or MD/PhD in molecular and cellular biology, microbiology or related fields and be skilled in protein biochemistry and related disciplines. Previous experience with metabolomics, proteomics, transcriptomics or bioinformatics would be helpful. The candidate should be able to work both independently and in a collaborative environment, with a strong commitment to reaching research excellence and achieving assigned objectives. Please send CV and names of three references to Veronica Elizarraras at elizarra@usc.edu

The University of Southern California strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment. Women and men, and members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.