Postdoctoral Scholar

Oregon Health & Science University • Portland, OR

3d • Onsite

About The Position

This is an NIH T32 training grant-supported postdoctoral research position. The successful candidate will work independently to investigate the biochemical and genetic mechanisms supporting posttranscriptional gene regulation in the human oral pathobiont Streptococcus mutans. He/she will be responsible for most of the planning, implementation, and data interpretation associated with his/her research. Thus, the candidate will be expected to work independently with attention to detail and strong record-keeping. The goal is to understand how protein-protein interactions control mRNA targeting and processing by the S. mutans RNase J complex. To achieve this goal, we have developed a unique genetic system to augment in vivo purification of specific RNase J heteromeric complex isotypes present in the cell. Typical laboratory techniques often require expertise with northern blot, western blot, protein expression/purification, coimmunoprecipitation, gene expression analysis, targeted mutagenesis, and microscopy. Demonstrable prior experience with the human microbiome and/or synthetic biology approaches is preferred. As a postdoctoral scholar, the candidate may also be involved with the training and supervision of students and junior staff as well as play an integral role in the management and supply ordering for the laboratory. Assistance with the development and preparation of grants/manuscripts will also be expected.

Requirements

• Doctorate degree in genetics, biochemistry/molecular biology, microbiology, biomedical engineering, or another relevant field.
• Demonstrable experience with some or all of the following: bacterial genetics, protein chemistry, proteomics, coimmunoprecipitation, RNA purification/analysis, and gene expression/transcriptomics.
• Grant and/or manuscript preparation experience.
• Planning, implementation, and data interpretation experience.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Organizational and time management skills that maintain timeliness of work and accurate prioritization.
• Ability to train and supervise students and junior staff.
• Attention to detail and strong record keeping experience/skills.

Nice To Haves

• Doctoral degree and/or postdoctoral research involving bacterial genetics and biochemistry.
• Protein expression and purification experience.
• Experience/knowledge of the microbiome, especially the oral microbiota.
• Experience with oral bacterial genetics.
• Demonstrable prior experience with the human microbiome and/or synthetic biology approaches.

Responsibilities

• Investigate the biochemical and genetic mechanisms supporting posttranscriptional gene regulation in the human oral pathobiont Streptococcus mutans.
• Plan, implement, and interpret research data independently.
• Work independently with attention to detail and strong record-keeping.
• Understand how protein-protein interactions control mRNA targeting and processing by the S. mutans RNase J complex.
• Utilize typical laboratory techniques including northern blot, western blot, protein expression/purification, coimmunoprecipitation, gene expression analysis, targeted mutagenesis, and microscopy.
• Train and supervise students and junior staff.
• Manage and order supplies for the laboratory.
• Assist with the development and preparation of grants and manuscripts.

Benefits

• Opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree