Current Opportunities at Vanderbilt

The Patrick Laboratory studies how post-transcriptional regulation shapes macrophage immune function. A central focus of the laboratory is understanding how RNA-binding proteins and components of the spliceosome function during pathogen sensing and innate immune activation. Through an interdisciplinary approach combining immunology, RNA biology, molecular genetics, genomics, and bioinformatics, we seek to understand how macrophages generate immune responses that are rapid, robust, and precisely regulated.

Current research areas include:

• Functional specialization of RNA-binding proteins during innate immune activation
• Regulation of pre-mRNA splicing and mRNA processing in macrophages
• Mechanisms by which alternative splicing influences inflammatory signaling pathways
• Roles of SR and hnRNP family proteins in innate immune gene expression
• Host-pathogen interactions during bacterial and viral infection
• Effects of cancer-associated splicing factor mutations on inflammation and immune responses
• Molecular mechanisms by which intracellular pathogens manipulate host gene expression programs

Required Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, Genetics, Microbiology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, RNA Biology, or a related discipline in the last 5 years (graduation data of 2021 or earlier)
• Strong record of research productivity demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in RNA biology, transcriptomics, splicing regulation, or gene expression analysis
• Experience with macrophage biology, innate immunity, infectious disease, or inflammation
• Expertise in molecular biology, CRISPR-based approaches, genomics, computational biology, or advanced imaging techniques
• Interest in developing an independent research program in RNA regulation and immune biology

Responsibilities

• Design and execute innovative research projects
• Develop and apply molecular, cellular, and genomic approaches to study immune regulation
• Analyze complex datasets and communicate findings through publications and scientific presentations
• Mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees
• Contribute to collaborative research efforts and grant applications
• Participate in Vanderbilt's postdoctoral training and career development programs

Application Instructions
Interested applicants should submit (via email to kristin.patrick@vumc.org)

• A cover letter describing research interests and career goals
• Curriculum Vitae (CV/Resume)
• Contact information for three references
• Representative publications (optional)

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.