Job Description
Who we are:
The Center for Cancer Research (CCR) complementary laboratory of Dr. Pedro Rocha (NICHD Stadtman Adjunct Investigator in CCR) studies how genome folding not only fits DNA within the constraints of the nuclear space but also is used as a critical mechanism of gene regulation. This is particularly important during development because perturbation of gene expression causes severe birth defects. We have shown that variations of just a few nucleotides of DNA sequence, can disrupt genome architecture, dysregulate gene expression, and severely compromise mammalian development. In addition, some of the animal models we developed are being used to test therapies for defects caused by abnormal genome structure. While centered on embryogenesis, our work sheds light on how cell type-specific transcriptional programs are established, with broad implications for cell fate decisions in other disease contexts such as cancer.
Learn more about our research.
Our principles:
We strive to create an engaging and fun environment to do science. We value rigorous work, ingenuity, and creativity. We like to collaborate, share ideas and technologies, and preprint all our work as soon as we submit to peer-review journals. We are looking for people who like to work on a team, teach, and learn. We also seek a wide variety of scientific backgrounds.
What we offer:
With more than 1,000 labs, NIH offers unique collaborative opportunities and world-experts from all fields of biomedical science, combined with core facilities equipped with the most cutting-edge technology. The laboratory is located on the NIH Bethesda campus, which has a state-of-the art research platform. The candidate will have access to the research facilities and outstanding stipend support, plus supplemental training support in the Laboratory of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology | Center for Cancer Research.
Postdoctoral positions at NIH are fully funded. Postdocs will be able to start their own research program or lead ongoing projects.
Qualifications and Job Details
Required and Preferred Skills
Our laboratory is looking for people who share enthusiasm for gene regulation, nuclear organization, and mouse development. Ph.D.-level experience in at least one of the following is required: mouse development, mouse genetics, epigenetics, massively parallel sequencing-based techniques, or computational biology.
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.
Please provide a 2-paragraph cover letter explaining your scientific trajectory and why you would like to join us. Send it, together with your CV and contacts for three references, to pedro.rocha@nih.gov.