Postdoctoral position

A postdoctoral position to study the role of the mitochondrial outer membrane protein (VDAC) in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism is available in Dr. Sergey Bezrukov’s Section on Molecular Transport at NICHD, NIH. More specifically, our lab examines the functions of three VDAC isoforms in mitochondrial bioenergetics and neurodegeneration. The aim of the project is to understand the molecular mechanisms of VDAC functioning and identify its natural regulators and synthetic inhibitors. Ultimately, the project seeks to improve outcomes of mitochondria-associated diseases by using VDAC as a promising pharmacological target. To ensure a successful outcome, the laboratory employs a combination of state-of-the-art biophysics, electrophysiology, cell biology, and computational methods.

Read more at https://www.nichd.nih.gov/research/atNICHD/Investigators/Bezrukov  

Qualifications

1. We are looking for a highly motivated candidate with an interest in mitochondrial physiology and, preferably, experience in protein chemistry and, willing to learn single-channel electrophysiology and other biophysical techniques available in the lab.
2. Candidate should have a Ph.D. in biochemistry or biophysics, or related fields obtained less than five years ago.
3. We value methodological skills and previous experience in molecular cloning, mutagenesis, protein chemistry, and protein purification, especially for membrane proteins.
4. The candidate should have excellent oral and written communication skills and publications in peer-reviewed international journals.

Responsibilities

1. The candidate will lead/co-lead projects and be responsible for literature search; design, execution, and analysis of experiments; and manuscript writing and submission.
2. Supervise other personnel in the laboratory to coordinate research efforts for increased efficiency; participate in the training of fellows, residents, students, and volunteer workers as needed.
3. Assist with ordering and procuring supplies and equipment, as well as with general laboratory maintenance.
4. Work in a collegial and cooperative manner with the faculty supervisor and other co-workers.

Benefits

1. Two year full-time appointment starting as soon as the candidate is selected for the position.
2. Gross salary of about $61,750 to $66,750 per year, depending on the level of experience. Read more: https://www.niaid.nih.gov/grants-contracts/salary-cap-stipends
3. The opportunity to work in a highly multidisciplinary team and learn single molecule biophysics techniques, such as single channel electrophysiology, bilayer overtone analysis (BOA), and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS).
4. Additional costs, such as travel and conference fees, will be covered.
5. The extensive opportunity for interactions in an outstanding and international context at NIH.
6. No teaching duties.

Interested applicants should contact Dr. Rostovtseva (rostovtt@mail.nih.gov). Successful applicants will eventually be required to submit: (1) a curriculum vitae (CV), (2) a bibliography, (3) a cover letter with a brief description of his/her research interests and experiences, and (4) a list of at least three references, including their mailing addresses, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses.

The Post-Doctoral Fellowship appointment within the NIH Intramural Research Program (IRP) is made under an Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) mechanism (for US citizens or permanent residents) or a Visiting Fellow (VF) award mechanism (for non-US citizens). The duration of Post-Doctoral Fellowship appointments can last up to five years. Some applicants may qualify for an additional three-year extended appointment as a Research Fellow (RF). Applicants must have completed fewer than five years of prior post-doctoral research training. Additional information and useful links about NIH Post-Doctoral Fellowship training positions can be found at https://www.training.nih.gov/postdoctoral/vf.asp.