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 Respiratory Pathogens

Transmission of Respiratory Bacterial Pathogens
A postdoctoral fellow position is available in the Laboratory of Respiratory Pathogens at the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research of the FDA (CBER/FDA), on the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD.  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 excellent animal space. The research program, directed by Dr. Tod Merkel, is interested in understanding fundamental aspects of Bordetella pertussis transmission and infection.  Projects will include the utilization of models of Pertussis transmission and infection and the identification and analysis of genes required for Pertussis transmission.

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 laboratory. 

Qualifications:

A Ph.D. in a relevant biomedical discipline is required, and experience directly related to the pathogenesis bacterial pathogens is highly desirable.  Willingness to work with research animals is necessary.  The position will be appointed as a 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).

Salary Range:

Salary is commensurate with education and experience, but generally ranges from $60,000 – $70,000.  Access to group health insurance is also available.

Location:  Bethesda, Maryland

How to Apply:
Candidates should send a detailed curriculum vitae; a short cover letter describing research interests, experience and future goals; and names of at least 3 references, with contact information; to CBER.Employment@fda.hhs.gov.  Please reference Job Code: OVRR-TM1.   Questions about this position should be directed to tod.merkel@fda.hhs.gov. Deadline to apply: December 31, 2009.

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