Posted: Aug 28, 2026

Postdoctoral Research Scientist

Columbia University - New York, NY
Full-time
Salary: $72,116.00 - $80,000.00 Annually
Application Deadline: N/A
Academic & Research Institutions

Description:  HIV Virology and Evolution

A postdoctoral position is available at the Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, in an NIH-funded laboratory studying HIV-1 biology, antiviral resistance, and virus-host interactions.

Our laboratory investigates fundamental aspects of HIV-1 replication through the development of innovative experimental approaches. A major focus of our research is understanding the evolutionary potential of the HIV-1 capsid and how genetic variation shapes antiviral drug resistance, viral fitness, transmission, and interactions with host factors. We integrate large-scale mutational analyses, high-throughput functional profiling, next-generation sequencing, and experimental evolution to uncover the mechanisms underlying viral adaptation and identify vulnerabilities that can be exploited for antiviral intervention.

A second area of research focuses on HIV-1 Env diversity and the development of new technologies for multiplexed characterization of viral phenotypes. Our laboratory develops high-throughput genetic and phenotypic platforms to investigate viral susceptibility to broadly neutralizing antibodies and to advance translational applications in HIV therapeutics and prevention.

Qualifications

Minimum Degree Required

  • PhD, MD, or equivalent doctoral degree in virology, microbiology, molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, or a related discipline.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Successful applicants should demonstrate scientific curiosity, creativity and strong communication skills.
  • Should be able to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience in molecular virology, molecular cloning, cell culture, viral assays, flow cytometry, next-generation sequencing, or bioinformatics is desirable, although candidates with strong backgrounds in related areas are encouraged to apply.

  • A record of publication in peer-reviewed journals is a plus
How To Apply:

Applicants should submit:

  • A cover letter describing previous research accomplishments, current interests, and career goals.
  • Curriculum vitae.
  • Contact information for three references.

Please send application materials to:

Masahiro Yamashita, Ph.D.
Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center
Columbia University Irving Medical Center
Email: [email protected]

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Columbia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran 

Pay Transparency Disclosure
The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to departmental budgets, qualifications, experience, education, licenses, specialty, and training.  The above hiring range represents the University’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.