Postdoctoral position in mechanistic microbiome research

The Pathogen Molecular Genetics Section in the Laboratory of Bacteriology within NIAID is recruiting for a postdoctoral IRTA position in the fields of bacterial pathogenesis, beneficial microbes, and inter-microbial and host-microbe interactions. The position is located at NIAID’s main campus in Bethesda, Maryland. The laboratory studies Staphylococcus aureus/MRSA, Staphylococcus epidermidis and other coagulase-negative staphylococci, Cutibacterium acnes, Bacillus subtilis, and other Gram-positive bacteria. The laboratory is interested in the pathogenesis of diseases due to Gram-positive pathogens. To that end, the laboratory studies mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis and colonization. A current focus of the laboratory is to study how specific microbes interact with each other and the host during colonization of the skin and intestine with the goal to inspire the development of novel therapeutics, such as probiotics or bacteriocins. Fundamental experimental approaches of the laboratory include molecular microbiology and animal infection and colonization models. Studies are carried out in biosafety level (BSL)-2 laboratories. Projects are available to study mechanisms of pathogenesis and colonization by S. aureus, S. epidermidis, or C. acnes. Other project proposals within the areas of interest of the laboratory will also be considered. Successful applicants will be part of a dynamic, multidisciplinary team focused on experimental approaches to important questions in bacterial pathogenesis and human microbiome research.

• Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology, or another appropriate discipline with less than two years of postdoctoral experience
• Strong background in molecular biology, bacteriology and/or immunology
• Well-developed oral and written communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment
• Experience working with animal models would be considered an advantage.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.