Job Description
Postdoctoral position in cell biology or cryo-EM/X-ray crystallography to study Polo kinase, centrosome organization, and abnormalities in HIV/AIDS-induced cancers
A postdoctoral position is available to study the function of mammalian polo-like kinase 4 and 1 (Plk4 and Plk1) that play central roles in regulating various biological events, including centriole duplication, bipolar spindle formation, chromosome segregation, cell division, and proliferation. Dysregulation of Plk4/Plk1-dependent processes by mutations in their associated components or HIV accessory proteins is tightly linked to developing aneuploidy and cancer. During the past several years, we have been combining biochemical, cell biological, and structural approaches (e.g., super-resolution imaging, in vitro reconstitution, X-ray crystallography, and cryo-EM) to delineate the molecular mechanisms governing Plk4/Plk1’s functionality on the centrosomal architecture, the deregulation of which can lead to the development of various human diseases, including HIV/AIDS-associated cancers. For additional information about our work, please visit Dr. Lee's webpage for more information.
Qualifications and Job Details
Required and Preferred Skills
Microscopy imaging, in vitro biochemical analysis, X-ray crystallography, or cryo-EM, signaling, cell cycle
About the NCI Center for Cancer Research
The Center for Cancer Research (CCR) is home to nearly 250 basic and clinical research groups located on two campuses just outside of Washington, D.C. CCR is part of the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and makes up the largest component of the research effort at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Centrally supported by long-term funding and a culture of complete intellectual freedom, CCR scientists are able to pursue the most important and challenging problems in cancer research. We collaborate with academic and commercial partners and advocacy groups across the world in efforts to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer and HIV/AIDS. The CCR research portfolio covers the full spectrum of biological and biomedical research. Our work ranges from basic to translational and clinical, and our clinical trials are conducted in the NIH Clinical Center, the world’s largest hospital dedicated to clinical research that offers a robust infrastructure to support CCR’s patients on an estimated 250 open studies. The success of CCR is grounded in an exceptionally strong discovery research program that provides the foundation for the seamless translation of insights from bench to bedside. Read more about CCR, the benefits of working at CCR and hear from our staff on their CCR experiences.
Bethesda
Bethesda is one of the most highly educated communities in the United States and has a nationally renowned school system. The city is a thriving suburban center close to Washington, D.C., and home to many restaurants, retailers and a flourishing arts and entertainment district.
Qualifications: Fellows who have expertise in the field of cell biology, cryo-EM, or X-ray crystallography with a keen interest in learning about the organization and function of the centrosome and their relevance to pathophysiological disorders are encouraged to apply. Applicants should have a Ph.D. (or expected to receive a Ph.D.) or M.D. equivalent at the time of joining the lab and have achieved the degree less than three years ago.