Postdoctoral Fellowship

Department of Health and Human Services
Food and Drug Administration
Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research
Office of Vaccines Research and Review
Division of Bacterial, Parasitic and Allergenic Products
Laboratory of Mycobacterial Diseases and Cellular Immunology

Postdoctoral Fellowship

Immunity to intracellular infections, including Francisella and Mycobacteria

A postdoctoral position is available immediately in the Immunology Section of the Laboratory of Mycobacterial Diseases and Cellular Immunology at the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research of the U.S. FDA (CBER / FDA), on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD, USA. As part of the NIH community, CBER has a strong scientific climate, excellent collaborative opportunities, BSL2 / BLS3 laboratory space, and well equipped facilities that include state-of-the-art-animal care. The Immunology Section, directed by Dr. Karen Elkins, is interested in the fundamental nature of protective immunity to intracellular bacteria, including Francisella tularensis and Mycobacterium tuberculosis.

The candidate will be expected to independently initiate, design, analyze, and report via publication a variety of research projects related to the laboratory’s ongoing research efforts; train and direct more junior members of the team; and contribute substantively to the scientific climate of the lab and the Center. Under some circumstances, there may be opportunities to participate in training and review of FDA / CBER regulatory submissions.

Qualifications:
The position will be appointed as a short term (2 – 3 year) position supported via an ORISE fellowship. Candidates may be US citizens, green card holders, or non-citizens that are eligible for at least 3 years on a J-1 visa (please note that only J-1 visas are acceptable). A Ph.D. and/or M.D. degree in a relevant biomedical discipline is required, and experience directly related to the pathogenesis and immunology of intracellular bacterial pathogens is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will have strong training, interests, and experience in modern immunology, bacteriology, molecular biology, biochemistry, tissue culture, and/or animal models of infection; intelligence, independence and initiative; the ability to write and speak fluently in English; and excellent organizational and interpersonal skills. Willingness to work with research animals, especially mice, and with potentially dangerous pathogens under BSL-3 level conditions, is necessary. Experience with cellular immunology, flow cytometry, confocal microscopy, and immunohistochemistry are of special interest.

Salary Range:
Salary is commensurate with education and experience, but generally ranges from $60,000 – $75,000. Access to group health insurance is also available.

Location: Bethesda, Maryland

How to Apply:
Candidates should send a detailed resume or curriculum vitae; a short cover letter describing research interests, experience, and future goals; and names of at least 3 scientists or faculty who will be prepared to provide references, with contact information, including e-mail addresses and phone numbers; to CBER.Employment@fda.hhs.gov. Please reference Job Code: OVRR-KE1. Deadline to apply: December 4, 2009.

The Department of Health and Human Services is an equal opportunity employer with a smoke free environment.