Post-Doctoral Fellow

JOB TITLE Post-Doctoral Fellow LOCATION Worcester DEPARTMENT NAME Biology & Biotechnology - NFR JM DIVISION NAME Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY Postdoctoral Research Fellow to study the relationship between RNA metabolism and mutation tolerance in Mycobacterium tuberculosis JOB DESCRIPTION A position is available in late 2026 or early 2027 for a highly motivated postdoctoral scientist to join Scarlet Shell’s lab in the Department of Biology & Biotechnology at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). The long-term goal of our group is to understand the regulatory mechanisms that allow mycobacterial pathogens to tolerate stress and maintain fitness in disease-relevant conditions. We are currently funded by the US National Institutes of Health and the US-Israel Binational Science Foundation. The postdoc will investigate the mechanisms by which M. tuberculosis mitigates the fitness costs of mutations selected by antibiotics and other stressors of infection. They will use a combination of biochemistry, genetics, genomics, transcriptomics, and phenotypic profiling. WPI is a selective private university dedicated to science and engineering. The Shell lab is located in WPI’s Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center, a modern state-of-the-art research facility conducive to collaborative and interdisciplinary research. Worcester is located in central Massachusetts within an hour of Boston, Providence, and the Pioneer Valley. Our location facilitates collaboration with other research groups in the greater Boston area, conference attendance, and enjoyment of outdoor and cultural activities. Requirements: The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline, an excellent work ethic, and a strong background in molecular biology. A solid publication record and experience in biochemistry and microbiology are also desirable. To apply: Please submit a CV, cover letter describing your research experience and professional goals, and contact information for at least three professional references. Questions may be directed to Dr. Shell at sshell@wpi.edu. More information on the Shell lab can be found at https://labs.wpi.edu/shelllab. Salary: $60,000 - $63,480 per year. Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. WPI’s benefits package includes a robust retirement match, wellness perks, tuition assistance and more! FLSA STATUS United States of America (Exempt) WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making. It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination. About WPI Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a vibrant and diverse community of extraordinary students, talented and dedicated staff, and world-renowned faculty. Along with its state-of-the-art research facilities, WPI offers competitive and comprehensive employee benefit programs, including paid time off, health insurance, life and long-term disability insurance, retirement savings plans, tuition assistance, flexible spending accounts, and a working environment that prioritizes mental health and well-being. It is a community committed to civility and respect—making inclusion and belonging a reality for everyone on its campus.