Postdoctoral Mass Spectrometry Position, Division of Preclinical Innovation, Analytical Chemistry Core Facility
Description
NCATS, a major research component of NIH, seeks applications from qualified candidates to fill a postdoctoral mass spectrometry position in the Analytical Chemistry Core Facility within NCATS’ Division of Preclinical Innovation. The selected candidate should have expertise in mass spectrometry, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and proteomics fields. Applicants with additional expertise in protein biochemistry, automation systems and high-throughput screening will receive preferential consideration.
The Analytical Chemistry Core Facility maintains a state-of-the-art laboratory, the mission of which is to support chemistry research throughout the center. The laboratory has a variety of instrumentation utilizing various analytical techniques, including liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, high-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance to facilitate early-stage chemical development. Initially focused on small-molecule purification and analysis, the laboratory’s capabilities have expanded to other therapeutic modalities, such as peptides, proteins, antibody-drug conjugates and lipids. The laboratory manages several cutting-edge mass spectrometers with the capability to perform high-throughput sample analysis, peptide and protein analysis (top-down and bottom-up), post-translational modification analysis, multiple reaction monitoring (MRM), proteomics, metabolomics, and ultra-high-resolution analysis of small molecules. NCATS’ goal is to increase the productivity, efficiency and integrity of chemistry efforts by optimizing workflows and integrating automated processes.
Core Responsibilities
The postdoctoral fellow will work as part of a multidisciplinary team of innovative scientists using the available resources to develop novel methods and assays for high-throughput proteomics analysis and mass spectrometry-based compound screening. The postdoctoral fellow will be expected to work independently as a well-trained problem solver in the areas of mass spectrometry and HPLC. He or she will manage, troubleshoot and regularly maintain the instrumentation. The fellow will be expected to prepare samples of various modalities prior to analysis. The fellow also will be required to keep accurate and complete records of all scientific experiments according to established procedures and ensure that these records and raw data are properly retained. He or she will draft technical reports, manuscripts and patent applications, as well as present work at internal and external meetings.
Qualifications
The successful applicant should possess a Ph.D. in analytical chemistry, biochemistry or a related discipline, with a focus in mass spectrometry and have relevant research experience. Candidates should possess extensive proteomics experience, including sample preparation, post-translational modification analysis and data analysis, using Proteome Discoverer, MaxQuant, Mascot and/or Skyline. Direct experience with ultra-HPLC/nano-HPLC instrumentation is a preferred. Familiarity with the RapidFire high-throughput sampling system and protein biochemistry is necessary. Training in the areas of metabolomics, lipids analysis, MRM, intact protein and protein top-down analysis is desirable.
The ideal candidate should be self-motivated, possess a strong work ethic, have a keen attention to detail, and be able to work on multiple projects simultaneously. Excellent analytical, organizational and time-management skills are required. The candidate should possess strong oral and written communication skills with a proven publication record in peer-reviewed journals. Applicants must be eligible to work in the United States for any employer.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter describing your interest in the position, including a research summary (one to two pages); a current curriculum vitae with a complete bibliography; and provide contact information for at least three references to Christopher A. LeClair, Ph.D., at ncats_info@mail.nih.gov.
Application reviews will begin promptly and continue until the position is filled.
Additional Information
A preappointment process (e.g., background investigation, verification of qualifications and job requirements, completion of onboarding forms, submission of required documents) may determine employment after an offer has been made and accepted.
At your supervisor’s discretion, you may be eligible for workplace flexibilities, which may include remote work or telework options and/or flexible work scheduling. These flexibilities may be requested in accordance with the NIH Workplace Flexibilities policy.