About the Xu Lab

The Xu Lab at Georgia State University focuses on developing and utilizing Nanobody technology—antigen-binding entities derived from camelid heavy-chain-only antibodies. These small yet highly specific molecules (13 kDa) offer unique capabilities, including tissue penetration and recognition of epitopes inaccessible to conventional antibodies. This makes them ideal for antiviral drug development and immuno-oncology therapeutics.

Our long-term goal is to create efficient platforms for nanobody development, enabling the production of novel biological molecules across therapeutic areas such as infectious diseases and cancer immunotherapy. Current viral targets include SARS-CoV-2, HIV-1, RSV, HMPV, Henipaviruses, Arenaviruses, and Hantaviruses—pathogens with pandemic potential.

PhD Research Areas

We are offering PhD positions in the following cutting-edge research areas:

1. Nanobody Platform Development
   • Development of transgenic mouse models, phage display, yeast display, and mRNA display systems.
   • Directed evolution and deep sequencing for nanobody discovery.
2. Nanobody Applications
   • Identification and characterization of nanobodies targeting viral pathogens such as Covid, HIV, Paramyxoviruses, Arenaviruses, and Hantaviruses.
   • Exploration of nanobodies for CNS drug delivery via the blood-brain barrier and cancer therapeutics.
3. Nanobody Engineering
   • Development of bispecific, multi-specific, and antibody-nanobody chimeras.
   • In vitro maturation, humanization, pharmacokinetics, and manufacturability of nanobodies for therapeutic use.

Eligibility Requirements

We seek motivated candidates with:

• A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Immunology, Molecular Genetics, or related fields.
• Strong interest in nanotechnology, immunology, virology, or cancer biology.
• Research experience in molecular biology, cell biology, or protein engineering (preferred but not mandatory).
• Proficiency in English for academic communication and writing.
• A passion for scientific innovation and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.

Your Responsibilities

As a PhD candidate in the Xu Lab, you will:

• Design and execute experiments to develop nanobody platforms.
• Characterize and engineer nanobodies for therapeutic applications.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.
• Contribute to ongoing NIH and industry-funded projects in infectious disease and immuno-oncology.
• Participate in lab meetings, workshops, and university seminars.

What We Offer

Funding and Benefits:

• Full Tuition Coverage: No financial burden on tuition fees.
• Competitive Stipend: Earn approximately $28,000 per year, tax-free.
• Research Support: Access to state-of-the-art facilities and NIH-funded projects.
• Professional Development: Opportunities to publish in leading journals and present at international conferences.
• Mentorship: Direct guidance from Dr. Jianliang Xu, a leader in nanobody and therapeutic development.
• Collaborative Environment: Be part of a vibrant academic and research community at Georgia State University in the heart of Atlanta.

How to Apply

1. Contact Dr. Jianliang Xu to discuss potential projects and gain further information.
2. Required Documents:
   • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
   • Academic Transcripts
   • Cover Letter highlighting research interests and qualifications