Description

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), one of the largest institutes in the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), conducts and supports basic and applied research to better understand, treat, and ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases. 

An exceptional postdoctoral opportunity is available in the Translational Mycology Section within the Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology on the main campus of NIH in Bethesda, Maryland. The successful candidate will investigate the genetic and immunologic mechanisms underlying susceptibility to invasive fungal infections in humans.

Our laboratory studies a unique and powerful clinical cohort of nearly 200 apparently immunocompetent individuals who developed cryptococcal infection—an opportunistic pathogen that typically affects only immunosuppressed patients (NIH protocol 93-I-0106). This rare cohort provides an unprecedented platform to uncover fundamental mechanisms of host defense, immune dysregulation, and fungal pathogenesis directly relevant to human disease.

The fellow will integrate cutting-edge approaches, including:

Whole-genome sequencing and human genetic analysis
Induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) generation and functional modeling
CRISPR-based knockout (KO) and knock-in (KI) mouse models
Single-cell transcriptomics
Intravital live microscopy
Advanced flow cytometry and immunophenotyping

This position offers the opportunity to bridge human genetics, immunology, and translational modeling in a highly collaborative NIH environment with access to world-class core facilities and clinical resources.

Career Development & Independence

A central goal of this fellowship is to launch the fellow into an independent, funded research career. The program emphasizes:

Generation of robust, high-impact preliminary data
Structured mentorship
Hands-on grant writing experience
Career development planning
Preparation for transition to independence
 

The previous fellow in this position successfully secured NIH funding and transitioned to a faculty appointment at a leading academic medical center with a substantial start-up package—reflecting the strength of the training environment and mentorship.

Requirements

Ph.D. in genetics, immunology, or a closely related field and/or M.D. (or equivalent), awarded within the past year
Strong publication record demonstrating scientific productivity and expertise aligned with the laboratory’s research focus
Demonstrated interest in translational immunology, human genetics, or host–pathogen interactions.

Applicants may be United States citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or non-U.S. citizens eligible for a valid work authorization. 

Applications from women, persons from underrepresented groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged. 

This position is subject to a background investigation. 

Visit NIAID Careers for more information about working in NIAID’s dynamic atmosphere.