Postdoctoral Scientist - Orth Lab
Howard Hughes Medical Institute
Summary
The Orth Laboratory, led by HHMI Investigator Dr. Kim Orth at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, investigates the molecular mechanisms by which pathogenic bacteria manipulate host cell signaling and immune responses. The lab's research integrates microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and animal models to understand host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level — with the goal of gaining novel molecular insight into eukaryotic signaling systems.
Job description
Lab Overview
The Orth Laboratory, led by HHMI Investigator Dr. Kim Orth at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, Texas, investigates the molecular mechanisms by which pathogenic bacteria manipulate host cell signaling and immune responses. The lab's research integrates microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, structural biology, and animal models to understand host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level — with the goal of gaining novel molecular insight into eukaryotic signaling systems.
About the Role
We are seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Scientist to join the Orth Lab at UT Southwestern Medical Center. This is an exciting opportunity to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which bacterial pathogens manipulate host cell signaling and immune responses in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment. The successful candidate will work primarily independently on their own research project, developing their scientific program and contributing to the lab's broader mission of understanding host-pathogen interactions at the molecular level.
What You'll Do
- Independently design and execute experiments investigating molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis and host cell signaling.
- Conduct research integrating microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, and structural biology approaches.
- Perform tissue culture, invasion studies, structural work, and cellular pathway analyses.
- Analyze, interpret, and present experimental data in lab meetings, seminars, and scientific conferences.
- Prepare and contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts and publications.
- Collaborate actively with other lab members, postdocs, and members of the broader research community.
What You Bring
Required:
- A PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related field.
- A strong publication record — multiple first-author or co-first author publications in reputable journals required.
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, or related techniques.
- Ability to independently design and execute experiments without reliance on technicians.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
Preferred:
- Experience in structural biology, host-pathogen interactions, or cell signaling pathways.
- Familiarity with animal models used in infectious disease or immunology research.
Requirements
- PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, or a related field.
- Strong publication record — multiple first-author or co-first author publications in reputable journals.
- Hands-on experience in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, cell biology, or related techniques.
- Ability to independently design and execute experiments without reliance on technicians.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively.
- Experience in structural biology, host-pathogen interactions, or cell signaling pathways (preferred).
- Familiarity with animal models used in infectious disease or immunology research (preferred).
Benefits
- Health benefits
- Wellness programs
- Retirement plans
- Time off
- Recognition programs
Company overview
The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is a premier American non-profit biomedical research organization and philanthropy founded in 1953 by business magnate Howard Hughes. Headquartered in Chevy Chase, Maryland with additional facilities at the Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia, HHMI is one of the largest private funding organizations for biological and medical research in the United States. With an endowment of approximately $24 billion, it ranks as the second-wealthiest philanthropic organization in the country. HHMI supports over 300 investigators at more than 60 host institutions across the nation, investing about $825 million annually in biomedical research. The institute focuses on fundamental biological research across diverse fields including genetics, immunology, molecular biology, neuroscience, and structural biology. Beyond research funding, HHMI also supports innovative science education programs, curriculum development, and public engagement initiatives to inspire the next generation of scientists. The organization operates with approximately 2,300 employees and maintains a commitment to open science, requiring immediate open access to publications from its funded research since 2022.