Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow to support the Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Department located at Uniformed Services University in Bethesda, Maryland. HJF provides scientific, technical, and programmatic support services to Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.

The incumbent is responsible for initiating and carrying out research projects in collaboration with a research team. Pursues research along a focused line of inquiry resulting in manuscript development in Dr. Sara Young-Baird's laboratory. Current research projects in the lab are broadly focused on gene expression regulation in the context of cellular stress and the role of protein synthesis dysregulation in human disease. The group utilizes multiple model systems including yeast, induced pluripotent stem cells, neurons, and various immortalized mammalian cell lines to address the fundamental mechanisms by which gene expression is regulated. By combining next generation sequencing with molecular, biochemical, and structure-function studies, the laboratory aims to elucidate how mutations in the mRNA translational machinery and dysregulation of protein synthesis contribute to disease, while identifying and exploring new avenues for therapeutic development.

Please review these sample publications for more information:

Young-Baird et al., Suppression of MEHMO Syndrome Mutation in eIF2 by Small Molecule ISRIB, Molecular Cell, 2020.

Young and Wek, Upstream Open Reading Frames Differentially Regulate Gene-Specific Translation in the Integrated Stress Response, Journal of Biological Chemistry, 2016.

NOTE: As per Executive Order 14042, all HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

Responsibilities:

• Assists in designing, developing, executing, and implementing scientific research and/or development. (25%)
• Performs specialized laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which involves specialized procedures. (25%)
• Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments. (25%)
• Assists with the preparation of data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals. (25%)
• May perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned or directed by the supervisor. This may include attendance of and participation in required training for role.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of appropriate scientific area; ability to analyze and interpret data. A background in gene expression is desirable.

Minimum Education: Doctoral degree required. Candidates with a Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Genetics, or a related field are encouraged to apply.

Minimum Experience/ Training Requirements: A minimum of 0-5 years of experience is required.

Physical Capabilities: Comfortability working it Hazardous chemical such as ethanol, methanol, etc.

Work Environment: Laboratory Environment.

Work Arrangement: 100% onsite.

Background/Security: Eligibility to obtain and maintain a Tier I investigation/Public Trust and a Common Access Card (CAC).

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, addresses, education, and credentials, a criminal background check, drug screening, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check.

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.