Postdoctoral position

A postdoctoral position to study the function and regulation of ion channels on a single-molecule level using a state-of-the-art system of planar lipid membranes and nanopore methodology is available in Dr. Sergey Bezrukov’s Section on Molecular Transport at NICHD, NIH. The lab examines the functions of beta-barrel channels, such as bacterial and mitochondrial porins, and various exogenous toxins. We are an interdisciplinary team of scientists combining theoretical physics, experimental biophysics, and cell biology. We apply our trademark techniques—single-channel electrophysiology and bilayer overtone analysis—complemented by other biophysical and cell biology approaches to understand the role of beta-barrel channels in metabolite exchange between cells and cellular compartments. With our current focus on the voltage-dependent anion channel (VDAC) of the outer mitochondrial membrane, our ultimate goal is to improve outcomes of mitochondria-associated diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer's disease by using VDAC as a pharmacological target.

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 ion channel biophysics who is willing to learn single-channel electrophysiology and other biophysical techniques available in the lab.
2. Candidate should have a Ph.D. in biochemistry, bioengineering, biophysics, or related fields obtained less than five years ago.
3. 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 the design, execution, and analysis of experiments; literature search; 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 ion channel electrophysiology, single molecule nanopore analytical approaches, and different biophysical and cell biology methods such as fluorescence microscopy, cell culture, and mitochondrial function assays.
4. Additional costs, such as travel and conference fees, will be covered.
5. The extensive opportunity for interactions in an outstanding and international environment 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.