Research opportunity / lab

March 5, 2025

Postdoctoral positions are available on NIH-funded research projects to study the biology of virus infection in different cell types and its links to neurodegeneration, in the Naghavi Lab. Dr. Naghavi is a professor at the Department of Microbiology-Immunology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago. The Feinberg School of Medicine is located in the center of downtown Chicago.

Our research focuses on infection by Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1), a retrovirus and causative agent of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In addition to suppressing the immune system, rendering victims susceptible to opportunistic infections, HIV-1 can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause serious damage to the central nervous system, ultimately leading to a broad spectrum of disorders that range from mild impairment to severe HIV-associated dementia.

Our research has had a long-term focus on host factors that regulate HIV-1 infection in a variety of cell types, including microglia and primary neurons. In one area of our research, we have identified specialized microtubule regulators and kinesin adaptor proteins that are exploited by HIV-1 to promote intracellular transport and infection. In a second area of research, we discovered that Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) is highly expressed in microglia and limits HIV-1 spread; evasion of this restriction by HIV-1 results in the secretion of neurotoxic amyloids. Modulating how APP and HIV-1 interact may provide therapeutic opportunities that we are currently exploring. Both projects employ a range of molecular biological approaches, as well as live cell imaging of virus movement and microtubule dynamics in microglia cells.

Candidates must have a PhD or equivalent with strong research experience in virology, neuroscience and/or molecular biology. Applicants with experience in fluorescence microscopy and live imaging are particularly encouraged to apply.

Interested applicants should email a complete CV, a brief description of their research achievements and interests, and the name and contact details for three referees to: [email protected]

Applications will be reviewed immediately until suitable candidates are identified.