Research Assistant Professor - Next-Generation Oncolytic Herpes Simplex Virus (oHSV) Therapies

Description: The Department of Biology and Biochemistry at the University of Houston invites applications for a non-tenure-track Research Assistant Professor position to support an active, NIH-funded research program focused on the development of next-generation oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV) therapies for cancer treatment. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing projects aimed at engineering and evaluating novel oncolytic HSV vectors with enhanced therapeutic efficacy and immune-modulating functions. Responsibilities include designing and conducting independent research, supervising trainees and laboratory personnel, assisting with grant and manuscript preparation, and collaborating with multidisciplinary investigators within and outside the University.

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. in Virology, Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, Immunology, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field. Demonstrated experience in developing or engineering herpes simplex virus or other viral vectors. Strong expertise in molecular cloning, genetic engineering, cell culture, and virological techniques. Experience with cancer biology and preclinical evaluation of cancer therapeutics. A record of peer-reviewed publications in relevant areas. Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications: Direct experience with the development and engineering of oncolytic herpes simplex virus (oHSV). Hands-on experience with bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-based herpes simplex virus (BAC-HSV) systems for viral genome manipulation. Knowledge of tumor immunology, cancer immunotherapy, and immune monitoring techniques. Experience with mouse tumor models and translational cancer research. A demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment and mentor graduate and undergraduate trainees. The successful candidate will join a highly collaborative laboratory dedicated to advancing innovative virotherapy and immunotherapy approaches for the treatment of solid tumors. The laboratory is supported by federally funded research grants and offers an outstanding environment for scientific discovery, collaboration, and career development. The University of Houston is a Carnegie-designated Tier One public research university located in Houston, Texas, one of the world's largest biomedical and healthcare centers. The Department of Biology and Biochemistry provides a vibrant and collaborative research environment with access to state-of-the-art core facilities and extensive opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration. Employees are expected to have a home address in the state of Texas for the duration of their appointments. Official transcripts are required for a faculty appointment and will be requested upon selection of the final candidates. All positions at the University of Houston-System are security sensitive and will require a criminal history check. Individuals conducting research in critical infrastructure areas (i.e., communication infrastructure systems, cybersecurity systems, electric grid, hazardous waste treatment systems, and/or water treatment facilities) are subject to regular review to ensure the security and integrity of the research is maintained. The University of Houston System and its universities are Equal Opportunity Institutions.