Summary
The Department of Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology at the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for a full-time Postdoctoral Scholar under the direction of Assistant Professor Valerie Cortez. The successful candidate will join an inclusive, interdisciplinary research team investigating the interplay between early-life enteric virus infection and the development of oral tolerance.
Postdoctoral Scholar, Cortez Lab: Enteric Virus & Immunology Research at University of California, US
Designation
Postdoctoral Scholar
Job Overview
| Field | Details |
| Job ID | JPF02126 |
| Department / Division | Molecular, Cell, and Developmental Biology / Physical & Biological Sciences Division |
| Employment Type | Full-time (100%) |
| Estimated Salary Range | $71,491 – $85,736 per year (Commensurate with experience level) |
| Position Duration | Initial appointment for a minimum of 2 years (possibility of reappointment; max 5 years total postdoctoral service) |
| Anticipated Start Date | September 1, 2026 |
| Work Location | Santa Cruz, CA |
Research Area
- Field: Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Focus: Interplay between early-life enteric virus infection and the development of oral tolerance.
Location
UC Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA
Eligibility & Qualifications
Basic Qualifications
- Completed all requirements for a Ph.D. (or equivalent foreign degree) except the dissertation at the time of application submission.
- Field of study must be in immunology, microbiology, molecular and cellular biology, or a related field.
Additional Qualifications
- Ph.D. (or equivalent foreign degree) in hand by the appointment start date.
Preferred / Ideal Experience
- Experience with flow cytometry, scRNA-seq, and/or animal models.
Note: The hiring unit will not sponsor employment-eligible immigration statuses for this position. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
Job Description
The Postdoctoral Scholar will contribute directly to research on enteric viruses and oral tolerance. Key responsibilities include:
- Performing enteric virus research and laboratory experiments.
- Contributing to laboratory management and mentoring graduate and undergraduate students.
- Staying current with relevant scientific literature.
- Contributing to the preparation of scientific manuscripts, presentations, and grant proposals.
- Working collaboratively within an inclusive, interdisciplinary research team.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the UC Santa Cruz Recruit Portal.
Required Documents
- Curriculum Vitae (C.V.): Most recently updated C.V.
- Cover Letter: Summarizing qualifications and interest in the position.
Reference Requirements
- 2–4 confidential letters of reference submitted directly by references or a dossier service to the UC Recruit system.
Last Date to Apply
- Next Review Date (Full Consideration): July 29, 2026, at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time)(Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.)
- Final Application Deadline: June 29, 2027, at 11:59 PM (Pacific Time)(Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but will only be reviewed if the position remains unfilled.)
