Postdoctoral Fellow Position in Host- Pathogen Interactions

University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

Laboratory of Michelle Visser

 

A postdoctoral fellow position is available immediately to study molecular interactions between Treponema species and the human host.

Spirochetes are a diverse group of bacteria responsible for many important health conditions including periodontal disease, syphilis, Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. The Visser lab studies how spirochete outer membrane proteins and outer membrane vesicles from various Treponema species modulate inflammation and cellular response during disease as well as the connection with systemic conditions such as atherosclerosis and neurological impairment. Much of the work in the Visser lab focuses on how these virulence factors and their active epitopes modulate neutrophil response. Ongoing projects include understanding the role of differential neutrophil cytokine response, extracellular matrix remodeling, aortic and brain endothelial responses due to oral Treponema infection. The Visser lab uses a multi-disciplinary approach comprising microbiological, molecular biology, cell biology, immunological and microscopy techniques along with animal models.

This fellowship position is NIH supported and the Department of Oral Biology is also the recipient of an NIDCR Institutional T32 Training Grant (“Advanced Training in Oral Biology”)providing multi-year support for postdoctoral trainees (USA citizens and Permanent Residents).

The Buffalo-Niagara region is a metropolitan area with a diverse community, affordable living and many activities. University at Buffalo is a premier public research university, largest in the SUNY system and among the top 40 public universities in the nation.  The Department of Oral Biology was established in 1963 and has a rich history of research training, grant funding and support for trainees. See the Department of Oral Biology website for more information (http://dental.buffalo.edu/departments/oral-biology/research/research-areas.html)

To apply please submit CV ( 3 page max)  by email to Dr. Michelle Visser ( [email protected]) or contact with any questions.