Principal Investigator – Microbial Pathogenesis

Office of Vaccines Research and Review (OVRR)

Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

The FDA’s Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research (CBER), Office of Vaccines Research and Review (OVRR), Division of Bacterial, Parasitic and Allergenic Products (DBPAP) is recruiting to fill a Senior Staff Fellow position to serve as a Principal Investigator in the Laboratory of Respiratory and Special Pathogens (LRSP).

Members of DBPAP are actively engaged in research for a variety of areas including studies examining the immune response to bacterial vaccines as well as molecular analysis of bacterial pathogens. These investigators lead research teams in the fields of immunology, microbiology and biochemistry employing state-of-the-art techniques to address critical public health issues as part of the CBER mission. DBPAP is located at the FDA’s White Oak campus in Silver Spring, Maryland and is part of the CBER research program, which includes more than 100 principal investigators. The newly built laboratory complex at White Oak includes core facilities, such as next generation sequencing and bioinformatic analysis, flow cytometry, confocal and electron microscopy.

RESPONSIBILITIES: As a Principal Investigator, the candidate will perform the following major duties:

• Develop and direct a cutting-edge independent research program in molecular biology, microbial pathogenesis, or host-pathogen interactions with relevance to the field of bacterial protein vaccines.
• Participating in the regulatory review of licensed and experimental vaccines and novel treatment modalities.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS: This position is multidisciplinary, and applicants will be required to meet one of the specific occupational series which are considered for this position include Biology (RG-0401), Microbiology (RG-0403), or Chemistry (RG-1320). Please refer to the link for each occupational series for more information regarding specific education requirements.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. in Biomedical or equivalent doctoral degree (M.D., D.V.M., etc.) is required. Successful candidates should have an outstanding publication record of research productivity, exceptional written and oral communication skills, experience in scientific critique, and clear evidence of leadership potential.

REQUIRED SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Candidates must have at least 3 years postdoctoral experience in microbiology, biochemistry, immunology, or a related field. In addition, he/she must have demonstrated state-of-the-art research accomplishments related to mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis, host-pathogen interactions, or bacterial protein vaccines.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show that the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Education website for Foreign Education Evaluation.

SALARY: Salary is commensurate with education and experience, including an excellent benefits package.

LOCATION: FDA White Oak Campus in Silver Spring, MD

CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: This position will be filled through the Service Fellowship program, with an initial appointment period followed by opportunities for renewal. Applications will be accepted from all groups of qualified candidates, including U.S. citizens or non-U.S. Citizens holding valid immigration status and work authorization at the FDA. No previous Federal experience is required. Appointment does not confer any entitlement to a position in the competitive service, and during the initial appointment there is no entitlement to Merit Systems Protection Board (MSPB) appeals rights.

• One-year probationary period may be required.
• Official Transcripts required
• Background and/or Security investigation required.
• If applicant is an U.S. Citizen, males born on, or after, December 31st, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service System or have an approved exemption. Visit www.SSS.gov for more info.
• Prohibited financial interest restrictions may apply. For additional information on the prohibited financial interests, please visit the FDA Ethics and Integrity Office website at FDA Ethics and Integrity Office.

HOW TO APPLY: Submit electronic resume or curriculum vitae with a cover letter containing a brief summary of scientific accomplishments and the names/contact information of three references to CBER Recruitment at CBER.Employment@fda.hhs.gov. In addition, include a statement of proposed research direction and how it would be applicable to the research areas described in this announcement (maximum 500 words). Applications and all supporting documentation will be accepted through November 13, 2021. Please reference Job Code: OVRR-22-01-SCI.

HHS/FDA is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.