Job Summary

A temporary research assistant position is available in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology to investigate the metabolism and bioenergetics of ring-stage malaria parasites.

The Ke lab is one of the four laboratories within the Center for Molecular Parasitology at Drexel University College of Medicine. We focus on malaria parasites including P. falciparum and P. vivax and aim to understand their biology for developing antimalarial drugs and vaccines. Particularly, the Ke lab is interested in the parasite’s metabolism and bioenergetics. We have recently discovered that the ring-stage parasites utilize pyrophosphate (PPi) as an energy source for pumping protons to establish plasma membrane potential. This ATP-independent proton pumping mechanism is unique to parasites and represents a potential antimalarial drug target. The future temporary employee will be funded by an R01 grant to study the bioenergetic status of ring-stage parasites and understand why the parasites use PPi rather than ATP for establishing plasma membrane potential. 

This position is grant-funded; employment is contingent upon the continued availability of those funds.   

Essential Functions

• We are seeking team players with a background in microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, or a related field.
• Prior experience in parasitology is necessary, and a strong background in molecular cloning, cell culture, omics study, and microscopy are a plus.
• The Ke lab provides an open, diverse, and equal working environment.
• Individuals of the Ke lab have easy access to equipment and facilities of other malaria research labs within Drexel.
• Further, the Ke lab is 10 min of driving distance to University of Pennsylvania and has ample opportunities to collaborate with parasitologists at UPenn. 

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of a PhD or Doctorate in Microbiology 
• Minimum of 1 year of experience

Physical Demands

• Typically sitting at a desk/table
• Typically standing, walking

Location

• Queen Lane Campus - Philadelphia, PA

Additional Information

This is a Full-Time temporary position classified as Non-Exempt. The offered pay is based on the successful candidate’s qualifications and experience, department budget, and an internal equity review.

For information about benefits, please review Drexel’s Per Diem/Casual/Temporary Benefit Fact Sheet.

Special Instructions to the Applicant
Please make sure you upload your CV/resume and cover letter when submitting your application.

A review of applicants will begin once a suitable candidate pool is identified.