A postdoctoral training position is currently available in the Section on Molecular Neurogenetics, Medical Genetics Branch of the National Human Genome Research. The position is located in the laboratory of Dr. Ellen Sidransky, whose translational research group uses genomics and cell biologic approaches to better understand the clinical diversity encountered in single gene disorders and the genetics of Parkinson disease. Mutations in GBA1, the gene mutated in the rare lysosomal disorder Gaucher disease, are the most common known genetic risk factor for Parkinson disease and related Lewy body disorders. The trainee will explore genetic modifiers for Gaucher disease and will use genomic techniques and data to probe the relationship between Gaucher disease and parkinsonism.
Dr. Sidransky's clinical team has been studying phenotypically diverse patients with these disorders for decades, collecting cell lines, tissues, DNA, and RNA samples. The group is now well-poised to interrogate and integrate next-generation sequencing data, epigenetic studies and RNA-seq results. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to utilize and apply different bioinformatic approaches to these and other genomic data sets, focusing on the identification of genetic modifiers and new genes contributing to neurodegeneration.
The NIH Intramural Research Program is on the Bethesda, Maryland campus and offers a wide array of training opportunities for scientists early in their careers. The funding for this position is stable and offers the trainee wide latitude in the design and pursuit of their research project. The successful candidate will have access to NHGRI's established and robust bioinformatics infrastructure, as well as NHGRI core facilities.
The NIH is dedicated to building a diverse community in its training and employment programs.
Candidates should have or be close to obtaining a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in bioinformatics, computational biology, molecular biology, or a closely related field. Some programming skills, statistical expertise and experience in the application of computational methods to genomic data are highly desirable. Applicants must possess good communication skills and be fluent in both spoken and written English. The ability to learn how to use and command new software programs used for next-gen data analysis, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and the ability to work semi-independently are required.
Interested applicants should submit a curriculum vitae, a detailed letter of interest, and the names of three potential references to Dr. Sidransky at sidranse@mail.nih.gov.