Assistant Professor, Immunologist - Surgery, Center for Translational Injury Research (CeTIR), McGovern Medical School

McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston invites applications for a full-time (1.0 FTE), Assistant Professor (junior faculty) position for a PhD-trained immunologist in the Department of Surgery, Center for Translational Injury Research (CeTIR). We seek a highly motivated and collaborative scientist with expertise in the innate immune response to injury and a strong interest in developing innovative immunomodulatory strategies.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to join a multidisciplinary environment focused on advancing translational research in trauma, critical illness, and injury biology.

Key Position Responsibilities:

• Establish and maintain an independent, externally funded research program focused on innate immunity in the context of injury, inflammation, and repair.
• Investigate mechanisms of the innate immune response and explore therapeutic immunomodulation strategies.
• Collaborate actively with faculty within the Department of Surgery and the Pediatric Translational Laboratories to advance team-based science.
• Contribute to the academic mission through mentoring trainees, including graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and research staff.
• Participate in institutional and departmental service activities as appropriate.

Research Environment & Resources:

CeTIR provides a highly collaborative and well-supported research environment with access to state-of-the-art core facilities and clinical research infrastructure. The successful candidate will receive a competitive recruitment package, including generous start-up funds to support the development of their research program.

Required Qualifications:

• PhD (or equivalent) in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in innate immune mechanisms, particularly in injury, trauma, sepsis, or inflammation.
• Strong record of peer-reviewed publications.
• Evidence of potential to secure independent research funding.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Postdoctoral training with a focus on translational or clinically relevant immunology.
• Experience in experimental models of injury or critical illness.
• Interest in interdisciplinary and collaborative research environments.

Interested applicants should submit:

• Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter outlining research interests and career goals
• Statement of research plans (2–3 pages)
• Contact information for three professional references