Institution: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
Contact e-mail: angela.ballesteros@nih.gov
Published: 03/14/2023
Deadline: 04/14/2023
Link to offer
Offer in PDF

Brief Description:
Two full-time postdoctoral fellow positions are available in Dr. Angela Ballesteros’ laboratory in the new Section on Sensory Physiology and Biophysics at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) in the NIH main campus (Bethesda, Maryland). Our lab focuses on the molecular and physiological basis of mechanotransduction, the process by which mechanically activated ion channels and receptors convert mechanical stimuli into biological signals. We are interested in unraveling the physiological role of the mechanotransduction complex of the sensory inner ear cells that mediates our senses of hearing and balance.

Position 1: We are looking for an enthusiastic candidate to study how the mechanotransduction complex regulates membrane and protein homeostasis and dictates the fate of the sensory inner ear cells. This biological question will be explored using cutting-edge microscopy techniques on inner ear tissue explants from mouse models for human deafness and balance disorders. Candidates with a background in cell biology or neuroscience and expertise in cell culture, mouse models, or imaging techniques are strongly encouraged to apply.

Position 2: We seek applications from highly motivated individuals to characterize the functional and structural relationships of the components of the inner ear mechanotransduction complex by protein biochemistry, structure, and biophysical methods. Applicants with a background in protein or lipid biochemistry and biophysics are preferred. However, the lab is open to passionate applicants keen to explore an unfamiliar field.

Successful applicants will join a multi-disciplinary and highly interactive team of researchers with diverse backgrounds and expertise in the collaborative and supportive scientific environment of the NIH (https://www.training.nih.gov/programs/postdoc_irp). In addition to the resources available within the Section on Sensory Physiology and Biophysics, postdoctoral fellows will have access to the multiple state-of-the-art core facilities specializing in transgenic mice, auditory testing, advanced microscopy, proteomics, and bioinformatics.

Candidates must hold a doctoral degree (PhD or the equivalent) by the start date of the fellowship and should have less than 5 years of post-doctoral experience. Appointees may be U.S. citizens, resident aliens, or nonresident aliens with or eligible to obtain a valid employment-authorized visa. Applications from women, persons from underrepresented groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Successful candidate will be offered health insurance and salary is commensurate with education and experience. These positions are subject to a background check. These positions are fully funded by the NIH intramural program and will be open until suitable applicants are found.

To apply, applicants should send 1) a one-page statement of research interests and career goals, 2) curriculum vitae, and 3) contact information for three references to:

Dr. Angela Ballesteros Section on Sensory Physiology and Biophysics, NIDCD Email: angela.ballesteros@nih.gov