The Division of Intramural Research of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH is searching for Intramural Research Training Award (IRTA) Postdoctoral Trainee in the Surgical Neurology Branch, Developmental Therapeutics and Pharmacology (DTAP). Dr. Sadhana Jackson’s laboratory combines CNS pharmacokinetic evaluations and cell biological approaches to understand the interplay between the blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and brain tumor cell proliferation. We use a combination of cell biology, molecular biology, imaging, pharmacokinetics and animal tumor models. It is expected that as a member of this lab, one will have an opportunity to be exposed to all these areas.
We value a vibrant and collaborative environment where lab members share ideas, reagents and expertise and desire to work on fundamental problems focused on targeted agents that affect the highly restricted BBB and malignant brain tumor cells. Our work uses an integrated bench-to-bedside approach that aims to 1) study the efficacy of targeted tumor and BBB directed therapy, 2) define the mechanisms that drive differences in neuropharmacokinetics of agents to the CNS, and 3) evaluate exquisite parameters via neuro-imaging of CNS permeability amongst malignant brain tumors. Our overall goal is to enhance our understanding of the heterogeneity of blood-brain barrier permeability among tumor cells and develop mechanism-based therapeutic interventions to treat affected brain tumor patients at the NIH Clinical Center.
Our lab is located on the NIH main campus in Bethesda, Maryland. The research facilities at NIH are outstanding and the lab has state-of-the-art equipment with exposure to FACS facilities, confocal microscopy core facilities and animal vivariums. The position will be fully funded by the NIH. The successful candidate must have a Ph.D. in a relevant discipline (molecular biology, vascular biology, tumor biology or cellular biology) with a strong publication record that reflects individual accomplishment, a demonstrated proficiency in animal tumor modeling, molecular biology, cell biology and image processing. Prior hands-on experience with cell culture, standard molecular biology protocols, and confocal imaging expected. It is desired that the candidate has at least one first author publication.
Other requirements include ability to work independently, as well as part of a team, strong verbal and written communication skills in English, strong motivation and most importantly a high level of creativity and enthusiasm for science.
The successful candidate will interact with a diverse group of scientists with backgrounds in biochemistry, bioengineering, molecular biology and cell biology. The position offers a generous salary and benefits package as well as the possibility of further career advancement if performance is excellent. The Postdoc Traineeship is contingent upon submission of acceptable proof of U.S. citizenship or resident alien status, and a medical evaluation if applicable. Opportunity for J1 Visa sponsorship by NIH Division of Immigration Services is also available for non-immigrant candidates.
The Traineeship will be for a maximum of 5 years. Salary and benefits will be set commensurate with experience and qualifications as well as NIH guidelines for intramural research training awards.
Qualifications:
- Doctorate Degree (Ph.D., M.D., D.D.S., D.M.D., D.V.M. or equivalent degree in a biomedical, behavioral, or related science; or certification by a university as meeting all the requirements leading to such a doctorate)
- 5 or fewer years of relevant postdoctoral experience and up to 2 additional years of experience not oriented towards research (i.e., clinical training for physicians). All employees and appointees are subject to a background investigation.
To apply:
The application should include:
- Cover letter with a brief description of candidate's interest in the position, research experience and long-term career goals
- Curriculum Vitae
- Representative publications
- Contact information of three references
Please email all materials as one PDF file to Dr. Jackson
NIH AND DHHS ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS