Postdoctoral Research Fellow

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us!

https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

JOB PURPOSE:

Conduct NIH-funded research on RNA-based gene regulation in Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterial pathogen prone to cause multi-drug-resistant bloodstream infections. The specific focus will be on small proteins, small RNAs, and tRNA modifications. The postdoctoral research fellow will lead experiments investigating RNA–RNA and RNA–protein interactions in bacterial stress adaptation and virulence.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

Dr. Karl M. Thompson, Ph.D. – Associate Professor and University Biosafety Officer

NATURE AND SCOPE:

This is a lab-based research position in molecular microbiology. The Fellow will:

• Perform functional studies of small protein and RNA function and interactions using and combination of molecular genetics (mutants, over-expression, gene-fusions, two-hybrid constructs); biochemical and biophysical tools (e.g., AUC, MST, SEC-MALS).
• Conduct RNA stability assays, RIP-seq, and bacterial genetics.
• Collaborate on in vivo studies and murine infection models.
• Contribute to mentoring, manuscript writing, and data presentation.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Design and execute experiments on RNA regulators and stress-response pathways.
• Analyze and interpret data from RNA-protein and RNA-RNA interaction assays.
• Generate and characterize mutant bacterial strains.
• Maintain detailed lab records and uphold research rigor.
• Support manuscript and grant preparation.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Strong background in molecular microbiology and RNA biology.
• experience with RNA-binding assays, RIP/qPCR/seq, and transcript stability analysis.
• Familiarity with protein–RNA interaction techniques and bacterial genetics.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

PhD in Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field. Track record in RNA biology or microbial gene regulation. Hands-on experience with relevant molecular techniques. Prior S. aureus or Gram-positive pathogen work preferred.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$50,000-$60,000

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