Postdoctoral Scientist - Heeger Lab - Translational Immunology

Postdoctoral Scientist Join the Research Team of Peter Heeger, MD at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center! Dr. Peter Heeger is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to join his translational immunology research laboratory focused on improving outcomes for patients receiving life-saving organ transplants. About the Lab Organ transplantation is the preferred treatment for end-stage organ failure, yet long-term graft survival remains limited, and the immunosuppressive therapies required to prevent rejection can significantly impact patients' health and quality of life. Our research integrates basic immunology, translational science, and clinical investigation to develop biomarker-guided, personalized approaches that improve transplant outcomes. By combining mechanistic studies with innovative clinical trials, we aim to reduce rejection, minimize medication-related complications, and promote long-term graft function and patient well-being. The laboratory has made important discoveries linking the complement system with T-cell and B-cell immune responses, identifying novel therapeutic targets for preventing and treating transplant rejection and other immune-mediated diseases. As part of an active, NIH-funded research program, the team is leading multiple clinical trials in kidney, heart, and lung transplantation, using advanced proteomic, transcriptomic, and immune profiling technologies to understand mechanisms underlying patient outcomes and to develop next-generation precision transplant therapies. About the Role Dr. Heeger is particularly interested in candidates with a professional background in immunology and transplantation immunobiology. Working independently but in close cooperation and in consultation with the Principal Investigator and other Research Scientist, the postdoctoral scientist will perform routine and complex laboratory procedures throughout training period. The incumbent may develop, adapt, and implement new research techniques and protocols. The incumbent analyzes, interprets data, and may assist in the preparation of grant proposals. This position participates in publications and presentations as author or co-author, but is not responsible for generating grant funding. This is an outstanding opportunity for a scientist interested in translational immunology, biomarker discovery, and precision medicine in organ transplantation. This position offers the opportunity to work at the forefront of translational transplantation research in a highly collaborative environment. The successful candidate will gain experience spanning fundamental immunology, biomarker discovery, translational science, and NIH-funded clinical research, while contributing to innovations that have the potential to improve the lives of transplant recipients worldwide. Researchers who are passionate about advancing precision medicine, immune regulation, and transplantation biology are encouraged to apply. Primary Job Duties and Responsibilities: Designs and performs experiments. Maintains appropriate experimental records and documentation and analyze the results with the Principal Investigator. Analyzes, interprets, summarizes and compiles data. Operates and maintains equipment and instruments. Qualifications Education: Doctorate (MD, PhD, VMD or DDS) in area directly related to field of research specialization, required. We are seeking recent graduates with a doctoral degree and a strong background in Immunology, Molecular Biology, and/or Cellular Biology. Experience and Skills: The candidate should be skillful in molecular and cellular laboratory techniques including flow cytometry, immune functional assays, ELISA, purification and culture of primary human cells, and single cell sequencing. Bioinformatics experience is a plus. The candidate must have strong written and oral communication skills, be highly motivated, independent, intellectually creative, and function well as part of a team. Candidates will be expected to contribute to ongoing projects and expand novel independent research projects in collaborative research environment. Acquires complete technical and theoretical knowledge of research project and objectives during one to five (1-5) year post-doctoral appointment. Demonstrated ability to perform experimental protocols and procedures, including detailed data collection, and analysis, and operation of specialized equipment. Knowledge of safety standards and maintenance of equipment. About Us Cedars-Sinai is a leader in providing high-quality healthcare encompassing primary care, specialized medicine and research. Since 1902, Cedars-Sinai has evolved to meet the needs of one of the most diverse regions in the nation, setting standards in quality and innovative patient care, research, teaching and community service. Today, Cedars-Sinai is known for its national leadership in transforming healthcare for the benefit of patients. Cedars-Sinai impacts the future of healthcare by developing new approaches to treatment and educating tomorrow's health professionals. Additionally, Cedars-Sinai demonstrates a commitment to the community through programs that improve the health of its most vulnerable residents. About the Team Cedars-Sinai is one of the largest nonprofit academic medical centers in the U.S., with 886 licensed beds, 2,100 physicians, 2,800 nurses and thousands of other healthcare professionals and staff. Choose this if you want to work in a fast-paced environment that offers the highest level of care to people in the Los Angeles that need our care the most. Cedars-Sinai