Job Description
The Molecular Targets Program (MTP) of the National Cancer Institute’s Center for Cancer Research (CCR) has a postdoctoral position available in its Assay Development and Screening Section (ADSS). The ADSS uses its expertise in cancer biology, molecular and cellular biology, and high throughput screening to adapt CCR basic science laboratory findings into high throughput, cell-based screens for the interrogation of pure compound and pre-fractionated natural product libraries for chemotherapeutic discovery. In addition, we use these same skills to characterize mechanisms of action of bioactive agents to find new modalities to address diseases and explore cancer relevant molecular targets of interest for potential clinical development. More information about the Molecular Targets Program and the Assay Development and Screening Section is available on the Molecular Targets Program website.
This position is for a researcher with published expertise in cell-based assays and/or biosensor development to develop and implement high-throughput assays for the discovery of biologically active synthetic and natural product-derived compounds. The fellowship duration is for a maximum of 5 years based on performance and yearly evaluations.
Qualifications and Job Details
Required and Preferred Skills
- Candidates must have a Ph.D. in biology, biochemistry, cell/molecular biology, pharmacology or a related discipline from an accredited research institution.
- Mammalian cell culture, Drug mechanism of action studies, Cell viability and cytotoxicity assays, General cellular and molecular biology techniques (western blotting, PCR, clonal selection), Immunofluorescent microscopy
- Previous experience in high throughput screening or natural products discovery is not required but will be prioritized in candidate evaluation.
- Cancer biology, High throughput assay development, Biosensor development, Genetic engineering using lentiviral constructs (BSL2)
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.
Frederick
Frederick is the second largest city in Maryland but retains a “small town” feel, surrounded by mountain views with a vibrant Main Street community. The city offers outstanding schools, a balanced and thriving economy and a highly educated workforce.
Applicants should submit a cover letter, CV with bibliography, and three letters of reference to MTP_PostDoc@nih.gov, indicating ADSS in the subject line. Applicants should highlight their experience in relevant cellular engineering and mechanism of action studies in their introductory email.
This position is subject to a background investigation.