Postdoctoral Fellow - Molecular Biology

Join the HJF Team!

HJF is seeking a Postdoctoral Fellow is Responsible for initiating and carrying out research projects in collaboration with a research team. Pursuits research along a focused line of inquiry and has a manuscript in development.

This position will be in support of the USUHS Anesthesiology Department. The newly established laboratory at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USU) in Bethesda, MD, is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Postdoctoral Research Fellow. This position is ideal for a recent Ph.D. graduate (0-3 years post-PhD) who is passionate about advancing research in muscle dystrophy, RYR1 gene mutations, neuromuscular junctions, calcium ion channels, cancer biology, and traumatic brain injury. Our research integrates cutting-edge technologies in cell and tissue culture, molecular biology, and imaging to explore the structural and functional dynamics of calcium ion channels in muscle and neuronal health.

The primary focus of the lab is on mutational analysis of the RYR1 gene, which is implicated in muscular dystrophy, and further explores the roles of calcium ion channels in neuromuscular function. In addition to muscle disease, our research extends into cancer biology and traumatic brain injury, aiming to elucidate the molecular pathways linking these areas. Key research efforts include the development of organoid models from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and the application of CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing technology to study RYR1 mutations and their impact on disease.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

Note: This site requires that the incumbent has lived in the US for three out of the past five years.

• Initiate and carrying out research projects in collaboration with a research team.
• Pursuits research along a focused line of inquiry and has a manuscript in development.
• Conduct independent and collaborative research on the role of RYR1 mutations in muscle dystrophy, using organoid models and other advanced cellular systems.
• Design and perform experiments utilizing molecular biology techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, to study calcium ion channels and their associated pathologies.
• Employ biochemistry, biophysics, and structural biology approaches to understand neuromuscular junction function and calcium ion dynamics.
• Use confocal microscopy and other advanced imaging techniques for real-time visualization of molecular and cellular processes.
• Collaborate closely with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and other neighboring institutions on interdisciplinary projects.
• Analyze data, prepare manuscripts for publication, and present findings at scientific meetings.
• Assists in designing, developing, executing, and implementing scientific research and/or development.
• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories to potential inventions and products.
• Performs specialized laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which involves specialized procedures.
• Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments.
• Assists with the preparation of data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals.
• 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.

Education and Experience

• Doctoral degree. Preference for degrees in molecular and cell biology, biochemistry, biophysics, structural biology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 0-5 years experience required.
• Strong expertise in cell and tissue culture, with a preference for experience in stem cell and organoid model systems.
• Proficiency in molecular biology, including CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing techniques.
• Background in biochemistry and biophysics, with hands-on experience in structural biology and imaging methods, such as confocal microscopy.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of appropriate scientific area; ability to analyze and interpret data
• Experience in neuromuscular junction research, muscle physiology, or calcium ion channel studies.
• Knowledge of cancer biology or traumatic brain injury research, with an interest in translational applications.
• Familiarity with NIH and Department of Defense research protocols is an advantage but not required.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with a demonstrated record of research productivity and publications.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a T1 Public Trust.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Compensation

• The annual pay range for this position is $50,100.00-$76,000. Actual salary will be determined based on experience, education, etc.

Benefits

• HJF offers a comprehensive suite of benefits focused on your health and well-being, from medical, dental, and vision coverage to health savings and retirement plans, and more.

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, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

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