Postdoctoral and Postbaccalaureate Fellows

The NIHCD Section on Molecular Dysmorphology, Porter Research Group is a combined Clinical and Basic research team working to understand the neuropathology and potential therapeutic interventions for Niemann-Pick type C disease. Niemann-Pick type C disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects children.

Applicants should be highly-motivated and have experience conducting gene therapy research. We need fellows to hit the ground running as this project is well underway and moving towards the clinic. Applicants should be prepared to be part of a super productive lab with great coworkers, a supportive and engaged PI.

We utilize multiple preclinical models, including neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells and mouse models. Advanced sequencing technologies, including single nuclear RNAseq and spatial transcriptomics, will also be used to gain insight into pathological mechanisms. Our high throughput drug and genome-wide sgRNA screens are helping elucidate potential drugs or druggable pathways. Similarly, our proteomic and lipidomic studies are being used to identify biomarkers important for facilitating clinical trials.

We are now looking to advance our AAV9-mediated gene therapy efforts to a clinical trial. An individual with experience in gene therapy and a desire to contribute to the development of therapies for a rare disease would be an impactful addition to our team. Specifically, in vitro work with AAV9 transduction in different cell types, the delivery of AAV9 constructs to mice via retro-orbital or direct CNS routes, behavioral analyses of mice, tissue collection, and final processing of tissues for readout measures using western blot, immunofluorescence staining, and droplet digital PCR will be the primary responsibilities of this position.

Prospective Candidates with a PhD in the Biological Sciences and less than 5 years of prior postdoctoral experience are encouraged to apply. Highly-motivated post-baccalaureate candidates with some bench experience will also be considered.

Bench experience with gene therapy and preclinical disease models is required. A strong knowledge of computational methods to study biochemistry/biology is a plus.

The NIH is dedicated to building a community in its training and employment programs and encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. Applicants must be a US citizen or a permanent resident.