Calix Postdoc Req SEP2026

Position Information

Job Title

Calix Postdoc Req SEP2026

Department Name

311402400 Med - Infectious Diseases

School/College

School of Medicine

Job Description

Postdoctoral position to study bacterialcapsule biology

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Juan Calix, MD, PhD, in the Division of Infectious Diseases at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Heersink School of Medicine. The NIH-funded Calix Lab (Est. 2021) takes a translational research strategy to investigate the propagation of modern-day infections among at-risk hosts, with current focus on carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter and non-vaccine serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae, and a special interest on bacterial surfaces and glycopolymers. Through the thoughtful combination of real-world epidemiological observations, next-generation sequencing of clinical isolates, and case metadata, we formulate clinically-informed hypotheses on how specific microbial features support transmission, niche colonization, persistence, etc. that precede disease. We then use immunological, biochemical, and molecular microbiology techniques and non-animal models to understand the mechanisms behind these features. Our goal is to identify pathobiological “choke points” to aid efforts against increasingly relevant bacterial pathogens

Candidates are expected to:

• Adhere to lab standards of integrity, rigor and inclusion

• Manage research projects and support development of protocols and collaborations

• Independently design and conduct high-quality science and analysis of existing data

• Lead and support manuscript and grant proposal development and writing

• Supervise and mentor trainees (of various levels) and research technicians

Required Qualifications

Basic qualifications:

— PhD, MD/DDS and/or equivalent, with training in microbiology or a related field, and background in molecular microbiology and mutagenesis techniques

— Experience in protocol development, troubleshooting and navigating research collaborations

— Strong communication and writing skills, as reflected in a solid publication record

— Academic references reflecting ability to develop a research project and proficiency in manuscript creation

— The ability to collaborate on multidisciplinary projects with team members from diverse backgrounds

— Experience in advanced molecular bacteriology, structural biology, and bioinformatics is desirable

— Willingness to fulfill full-time, in-person position in Birmingham, AL

Many opportunities for professional development, mentorship, academic and research leadership, publication, and applied knowledge translation will be provided through training resources and the interdisciplinary training environment in the UAB Division of Infectious Disease, Division of Pulmonology/ Allergy/Critical Care, and the Department of Microbiology. Dr. Calix collaborates with local and international experts in epidemiology, clinical microbiology, molecular bacteriology, animal models and bioinformatics.

Preferred Qualifications

Posting Detail Information

Posting Number

PF1090P

Open Date

10/01/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

Nondiscrimination Statement

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran’s status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB’s Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

Special Instructions for the Position

Submit applications that includes: a one-page statement of academic/research interests; academic CV; contact information for three academic references; academic transcripts for the most recent degree completed/in progress.

Can also be addressed to: Juan Calix, MD, PhD [email protected]
Assistant Professor of Medicine Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine

Pre-employment Background Check

A pre-employment background check investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.