Position Description:

A Staff Scientist position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Harris Bernstein (Genetics and Biochemistry Branch/NIDDK) to study outer membrane proteins (OMPs) in Gram-negative bacteria. While most proteins that integrate into biological membranes contain α-helical membrane spanning segments, OMPs contain a folded “β barrel” structure that serves as a membrane anchor. We are currently focusing on the assembly (folding and membrane integration) of OMPs using a combination of biochemical, biophysical, and structural approaches. Although an essential heterooligomer called the barrel assembly machinery (Bam) complex has been shown to catalyze the membrane insertion of OMPs, its mechanism of action is poorly understood. Our goal is to elucidate the function of the Bam complex using E. coli as a model organism. Because compounds that exhibit strong antimicrobial activity have recently been described that inhibit the activity of the Bam complex, our work may lead to strategies to develop new antibiotics. We are also interested in analyzing the function of OMPs that have been shown to play important roles in bacterial pathogenesis and studying OMPs of unknown function.

For examples of our recent work, please see Doyle MT, et al. (2022) Cell 185: 1143-1156; Doyle MT and Bernstein, HD (2021) Mol Cell 81: 2000-2012; Wang X et al. (2021) mBio 12: e00597; Doyle MT and Bernstein HD (2019) Nat Commun 10: 3358; Sikdar R, et al. (2017) Nat Commun 8:1309. Further information about our research can also be found at https://www.niddk.nih.gov/about-niddk/staff-directory/biography/bernstein-harris.

Qualifications:

Candidates should have a Ph.D. and a minimum of three years of postdoctoral training in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or structural biology. Candidates should also have proficiency in a wide range of methods and a strong publication record.

To Apply:

Interested candidates should email their CV and contact information for three references to:

Dr. Harris Bernstein
Senior Investigator
Genetics and Biochemistry Branch/NIDDK
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
Email: harris_bernstein@nih.gov

Salary is dependent on qualifications and experience. A full package of Civil Service benefits is available including retirement, health and life insurance, long-term care insurance, leave and savings plan (401 (k) equivalent). The position is based in Bethesda, Maryland.

DHHS is an equal opportunity employer. The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.