Investigator - Immunology

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is the largest blood-focused research institute in the United States. With over 30 basic, translational, and clinical researchers, the institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative therapies related to blood and blood disorders. The institute's research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including transfusion medicine, cellular therapy, thrombosis/hemostasis, immunology, and hematologic malignancies. As a vital part of Versiti, a non-profit organization with a blood bank at its core, the VBRI strives to improve lives through innovative research and the development of novel diagnostics and treatments.

VBRI is part of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Campus, a rapidly growing clinical-translational research hub. VBRI's proximity to the Medical College of Wisconsin, Childrens' Hospital of Wisconsin, and Froedtert Hospital facilitates seamless interdisciplinary collaborations. A range of exemplary core facilities support highly competitive research. In the summer of 2024, construction of a new research building will start, doubling existing VBRI research space to enable the recruitment of 10-15 new faculty. With its renowned researchers, strategic expansion plans and location in a highly collaborative environment, the VBRI is poised to maintain and expand its position as one of the leading hematology institutes in the world.

Exciting Faculty Opportunities in Immunology Research

The Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is seeking outstanding immunologists to join its expanding research community. This recruitment is part of a major initiative to advance immunology research.

We invite applications for independent investigator positions at the Assistant or Associate Professor level. Candidates should have expertise in areas such as autoimmunity, lymphocyte biology, innate immunity, or immune therapies. A competitive startup package is available. Strong applicants with a record of impactful research and extramural funding are encouraged to apply.

About VBRI and its Immunology Research

The Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is a leader in blood-related research, spanning fundamental mechanisms to clinical and translational studies. Home to 30 principal investigators, VBRI focuses on five key areas: Hematopoiesis, Immunology, Thrombosis and Hemostasis, Transfusion Medicine, and Glycobiology.

VBRI immunologists conduct collaborative research on autoimmunity, B, T, and NK cell biology, and immune regulation, with opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration. They have access to cutting-edge facilities and a dynamic academic environment that fosters innovation. Research opportunities span basic, translational, and clinical studies, further supported by strong partnerships with the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Froedtert Hospital, and Children's Wisconsin.

Faculty benefit from a research-focused environment with minimal teaching obligations while mentoring graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. As part of a strategic growth initiative, VBRI plans to recruit 18 new faculty members over the next 5-7 years and complete a state-of-the-art research facility (60,000-80,000 ft) by 2025.

Who Should Apply?
We are seeking candidates with an M.D., Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree who have a proven track record of creativity, productivity, and a collaborative spirit. Successful applicants will be expected to establish and lead a productive and innovative research program, secure extramural funding, and actively contribute to education, training, and mentorship. Additionally, candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the fields of science and medicine.

Application Process
Qualified applicants should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a summary of research accomplishments and future plans (4 pages maximum), names and contact information for up to four references. Applications should be sent to immunologysearch@versiti.org. Applications from individuals underrepresented in biomedical sciences are strongly encouraged.

Discover Milwaukee
Milwaukee offers an affordable, high-quality lifestyle with excellent schools, rich cultural opportunities, outdoor recreation, and proximity to Chicago. Learn more about living and working in Milwaukee at versiti.org/careers/living-in-milwaukee.

Versiti is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusion. We do not discriminate based on age, sex, race, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation.

Benefits
Versiti provides a comprehensive benefits package based on your job classification. Full-time regular employes are eligible for Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans, Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays, Short- and Long-term disability, life insurance, 7% match dollar for dollar 401(k), voluntary programs, discount programs, others.

Defines and implements a fundable research program.
• Obtains funding from sources outside of the BCW.
• Holds a faculty appointment at the Associate Professor Level at a local University/Medical School.
• Maintains an active scientific publications record.
• Contributes to growth and viability of BCW Science and Technology programs.
• Mentors pre/post doctoral Fellows and Research Scientists.
• Has supervisory and management responsibilities within the laboratory group.
• Trains, directs, and mentors staff within the laboratory group.
• Directs laboratory and Research Staff Meetings.
• Adheres to BCW, Bio-safety, NRC and OSHA procedures and regulations.
• Grant administration and budget responsibilities
• May prepare and/or authorize requisitions for ordering supplies and equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned
• Complies with all policies and standards

Education

• M.D required
• PhD required
• or equivalent degree (e.g., D.Sc.) required

Experience

• Established track record of scientific accomplishment, as evidenced by consistent, high-quality contributions to the scientific literature required
• Demonstrated success in sustaining extramural funding to support a majority of his/her research program required
• Recognized impact on his/her scientific field, as evidenced by invitations to speak at University seminars, national and international scientific meetings, and symposia required
• Participation in peer review of grants and manuscripts required
• History of successful mentoring of post-doctoral fellows and/or graduate students required
• Eligible to hold a University faculty appointment at the level of Associate Professor required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated ability to establish effective collaborations with scientific colleagues to further research goals. required
• Demonstrated ability to independently apply understanding of scientific theory to the structure and execution of research experiments. required
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and explain the theoretical basis of the work performed. required
• Immediate proficiency in basic and sophisticated tests and procedures required in the scientific field. required
• Exceptional organizational and communication skills. required
• Strong detail orientation and analytical ability. required
• Excellent problem solving skills. required
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks and meet deadlines. required
• Ability to supervise, coordinate and plan the work of several individuals involved in a project. required
• Computer literate with an emphasis on graphics, graphing, data management, and statistical applications. required

Tools and Technology

• Specialized research laboratory equipment required
• Personal computer required

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