Postdoctoral Fellow

Department of Health and Human Services

National Institutes of Health

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Laboratory of Bacteriology

Biology of Spirochetes Unit

Postdoctoral Fellow

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), one of the largest institutes in the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and part of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), conducts and supports basic and applied research to better understand, treat, and ultimately prevent infectious, immunologic, and allergic diseases.

The Biology of Spirochetes Unit (BOSU) within NIAID seeks candidates for a postdoctoral fellowship position studying gene regulation and the cell biology of spirochetes. BOSU is located on the main campus of NIH in Bethesda, Maryland, and is headed by Philip Adams, Ph.D. The laboratory investigates spirochete transcriptomics, gene regulation, and pathogenesis. 

BOSU seeks a postdoctoral researcher to join its team in conducting innovative and diverse research on spirochetes, including Borrelia burgdorferi, Leptospira interrogans, and Treponema pallidum, the causative agents of Lyme disease, leptospirosis, and syphilis, respectively. The successful candidate will use advanced techniques in microbiology and RNA biology, including genetic manipulations of spirochetes, RNA-sequencing, northern blotting, RNA structure probing, single-bacterium sorting, and cryo-electron transmission microscopy, to investigate the mechanisms of gene regulation and cell biology during infection.

Responsibilities of the position include the following:

• Perform experiments in biosafety level (BSL)-2 containment
• Work with tick and mammalian infection models
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of scientists
• Contribute to the design and execution of innovative research projects
• Analyze and interpret data
• Prepare manuscripts for publication
• Present findings at national and international conferences

Additionally, the role involves mentoring and training junior lab members.

This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in the dynamic and inclusive community of the NIH Intramural Research Program with access to state-of-the-art biomedical facilities and resources. Information about postdoctoral training at NIH can be found at the NIH Office of Intramural Training & Education.

Qualifications

Required

• Ph.D. in microbiology or another appropriate discipline
• Less than three years of postdoctoral experience

Highly motivated candidates with a strong background in microbiology are encouraged to apply. Experience working in molecular biology, as well as with tick/animal models and radioactivity, is considered an advantage. The successful candidate will have demonstrated the ability to conduct independent research and possess a track record of scientific publications. Proficiency in a range of laboratory techniques, including bacterial genetics and RNA biology, as well as in analysis of complex datasets, is highly desirable. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment, and well-developed oral and written communication skills are essential.

To Apply

Interested candidates should email the following to philip.adams@nih.gov:

• Curriculum vitae
• A letter expressing career goals and interests
• Contact information of three references

Applicants may be United States citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or non-U.S. citizens eligible for a valid work authorization.

Applications from women, persons from underrepresented groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged.

This position is subject to a background investigation.

Visit NIAID Careers for more information about working in NIAID’s dynamic atmosphere.

HHS, NIH, and NIAID are equal opportunity employers dedicated to equity, diversity, and inclusion.