Assistant Research Professor in Microbiology & Cell Biology
The Department of Microbiology & Cell Biology (MCB) at Montana State University (MSU) invites applications for a Non-Tenure Track Assistant Research Professor to join a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research environment. This position offers an exciting opportunity to lead independent, innovative research in microbial physiology, phage biology, and microbe–host interactions within the Secor Lab.
The successful candidate will drive mechanistic discovery in microbial systems, with a strong emphasis on bacterial communities, phages, and their roles in animal hosts. This role is ideal for a motivated scientist seeking to advance fundamental microbiology research using state-of-the-art facilities and interdisciplinary approaches.
The department is supported by advanced core research facilities, including BSL-2, BSL-3, and ABSL-2 pathogen-containment laboratories, and plays a significant role in MSU’s Center for Biofilm Engineering. Faculty also contribute to pre-medical, pre-veterinary, medical laboratory science, and regional medical and veterinary education programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and lead independent research programs in microbiology, microbial physiology, and microbe–host interactions
- Conduct mechanistic studies of bacterial communities and bacteriophages in animal hosts
- Apply molecular, genetic, cellular, biochemical, and imaging-based approaches
- Collaborate across interdisciplinary research teams
- Mentor trainees and contribute to a safe and productive laboratory environment
Qualifications & Expertise Required:
- Phage and microbe-driven modulation of host physiology
- High-resolution or live-cell imaging
- Immunological assays related to microbe–host interactions
- Perform Quantitative analysis of microbial behavior
- Ability to work on Multi-organismal systems (vertebrate, invertebrate, or gnotobiotic models)
- Leadership in managing specialized laboratory facilities or contributing to competitive research proposals
For queries regarding this position, contact: Patrick Secor at patrick.secor@montana.edu
For more phage-related job opportunities, click here
