Lab Molecular Biology and Immunology, NIA National Institute on Aging, NIHSalary according to NIH postdoc salary scale plus excellent benefits.

Postdoctoral positions are available in Baltimore to study (1) antibody diversity and (2) inflammation. Research on antibody diversity will focus on the molecular mechanisms that produce somatic hypermutation in antibody genes. B cells express the activation-induced deaminase (AID) protein, which unleashes a tsunami of mutations in the immunoglobulin loci. We are studying how AID is targeted to DNA encoding antibody genes. We have identified transcriptional pausing as a factor in shepherding AID to variable and switch regions. Through the generation of single-strand DNA and the recruitment of specific pausing co-factors, AID is enlisted and produces random DNA substitutions, followed by selection for the highest affinity antibodies to destroy pathogens. Research on inflammation will focus on the role of antibodies in promoting chronic inflammation. B cells can be recruited to aortic plaques and aggravate atherosclerosis. We are examining the role of antibodies, with either mutated variable genes or switched constant genes, in causing the disease. Specific antibodies will be identified in mice and humans, and used to recognize the antigens associated with atherosclerosis. http://www.irp.nia.nih.gov/branches/lmbi/pgearhart.htm

The Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Immunology has a strong emphasis on molecular biology in relevant mouse models. The Institute sponsors state-of-the-art core facilities for lymphocyte manipulation, Illumina sequencing, and flow cytometry. Baltimore, MD, is a city with stimulating scientific and cultural environments, and is proximal to the Johns Hopkins University. To apply, please send a statement of research background, curriculum vitae, and contact information for 3 references to gearhartp@mail.nih.gov

About training at NIH: Postdoctoral training in the NIH Intramural Research Program (IRP) provides the opportunity for recent doctoral degree recipients to enhance their research skills in the resource-rich National Institutes of Health (NIH) environment, which consists of more than 1200 laboratories/research projects located on the main campus in Bethesda, MD and the surrounding area as well as in Baltimore and Frederick, MD; Research Triangle Park, NC; Hamilton, MT; Framingham, MA; and Detroit, MI. Trainees pursue basic, translational, and clinical research free from the demands of obtaining grants and teaching, although opportunities to do both are available. At the NIH, postdocs work in a highly collaborative research environment with leading scientists and clinicians. The postdoctoral community at the NIH is large (approximately 4,000 strong) and vibrant. Trainees come from across the U.S. and around the world. Support for international postdocs is provided by the NIH Division of International Services.

Eligibility: To be eligible for postdoctoral training in the NIH IRP, individuals must hold a doctoral degree (PhD, MD, DDS, or the equivalent) and have no more than five years of relevant research experience since receipt of their most recent doctoral degree. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are appointed to Postdoctoral Intramural Research Training Awards (IRTAs); citizens of other nations are appointed as Visiting Fellows.

Stipend and Benefits: The stipends for postdoctoral trainees at the NIH are adjusted yearly; with supplements for prior experience, multiple degrees, and expertise in areas of current interest to the NIH such as mathematics, engineering, chemistry, and bioinformatics. Note that stipends for Postdoc IRTAs and Visiting Fellows are identical. Benefits include health insurance for the trainee and his/her family, and support for coursework related to the trainee's research and travel to meetings is often available. In addition, the NIH Fellows Committee (FelCom) and the NIH Office of Intramural Training & Education (OITE) sponsor a wide range of career development and social activities. The OITE includes an Office of Postdoctoral Services, a Career Services Center and Career Library.DHHS and NIH are Equal Opportunity Employers.The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.