Postdoctoral Associate - Orth Lab

We are currently seeking a Postdoctoral Associate within the lab of Dr. Kim Orth at UT Southwestern Medical Center location. The Orth lab is interested in deciphering molecular mechanisms used for signaling by the host and pathogen. We are interested in elucidating the activity of virulence factors from pathogenic bacteria so that we can gain novel molecular insight into eukaryotic signaling systems. In the past, we have discovered mechanisms such as Ser/Thr acetylation, AMPylation, irreversible actin assembly, bacterial phosphoinositide-binding domain mimics, and pore-forming V-ATPase inhibitors. The marine bacterium Vibrio parahaemolyticus is the worldwide leading cause of seafood-borne acute gastroenteritis. For decades, this pathogen has been studied exclusively as an extracellular bacterium. However, recent studies from our lab have revealed the pathogen's ability to invade and replicate within host cells. We find novel mechanisms used by the pathogen to manipulate and exploit host signaling mechanisms so this bacterium can survive, proliferate, and escape. Our work at UT Southwestern is accomplished using a broad range of tools, including biochemistry, molecular microbiology, protein chemistry, structural biology, yeast genetics, cell biology and more. Details on our research interests and past publications can be found at:

The Orth lab is an exciting, friendly, welcoming, and inclusive place. Some of our future studies include, but are not limited to, deciphering mechanisms involved in bacterial pathogenesis and signaling mediated by mammalian AMPylation machinery. We currently have many projects available to decipher virulence mechanisms and to elucidate the AMPylation rheostat for the unfolded protein response using genetic mouse and fly models.

Applicants should submit their curriculum vitae, a one-page statement on how their experience and interests relate to our work - tell us why you are interested in the Orth lab and what you would want to work on based on our publications- and contact information for three references.

Qualifications

Education

• PhD. in structural biology, biochemistry, genetics, cell biology or biophysics.

• Ability to work both independently and in a collaborative group environment.

• Effective communication skills, self-motivated, and a strong work ethic.

Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated working knowledge of scientific principles

• Exercises independent judgment in developing methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria for obtaining results

• Ability to perform highly complex experiments with high levels of reliability and accuracy within time constraints

• Operational knowledge of advanced lab equipment

• Ability to provide work and supervise directions to others

• Ability to initiate and compose communications for various purposes in an appropriate style

• Ability to work successfully within a collaborative and collegial environment and foster this ability in others.

• Ability to review goals, analyze processes necessary to achieve those goals, and develop techniques and systems required to meet those goals. Often explores new areas and seeks opportunities to apply new knowledge to work.

Physical Requirements

Remaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet).

Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.

Please Note:

This job description sets forth the job's principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however. Unless they begin with the word "may," the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are "essential functions" of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Compensation and Benefits

Our employees are compensated from a total rewards perspective in many ways for their contributions to our mission, including competitive pay, exceptional health benefits, retirement plans, time off, and a range of recognition and wellness programs. Visit our site to learn more.