Job Description

The Institute for Bioscience and Biotechnology Research (IBBR), University of Maryland, Rockville, MD, in partnership with the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), Gaithersburg, MD, is seeking a Postdoctoral Associate candidate to work on biophysical studies of membrane-active peptides. We are looking for a talented and highly motivated individual to work on the functional and structural characterization of peptide-membrane interactions using both biological (cell culture) methods and model lipid membranes systems (e.g., liposomes).

The Postdoctoral Associate will be a part of a “Reflectometry-driven Optimization And Discovery of Membrane Active Peptides (ROADMAP)” project team, recently funded for 5 years, that includes experts in the area of biophysical measurements of lipid membranes and membrane-active peptides (MAPs), neutron and X-ray reflectometry and diffraction, data science, machine learning and predictive modeling of antimicrobial and cell-penetrating peptides at lipid membranes. ROADMAP aims to establish a workflow for rapid discovery of potent peptide candidates for biomedical applications including combating microbial resistance.

The candidate will be expected to collaborate closely with researchers of the ROADMAP team and contribute measurement data and reports, as needed to inform and validate predictive models of interaction of MAPs with lipid membranes. The incumbent will have the opportunity to use state-the-art techniques and facilities available at IBBR and NIST, including a suite of X-ray and neutron scattering instruments, cryo-EM and NMR facilities.

IBBR is a joint research enterprise of the University of Maryland, College Park, the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. IBBR leverages state-of-art integrative methods for bioanalytical, biophysical and structural characterization of biomolecules: cryo-electron microscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, x-ray crystallography, small angle neutron and x-ray scattering and mass spectrometry. IBBR researchers seek to advance therapeutic development, biomanufacturing, and state-of-the-art measurement technologies, to support accelerated delivery of safe and effective medicines to the public. IBBR is a major initiative and supported in part by the University of Maryland Strategic Partnership: MPowering the State (MPower) , an initiative designed to achieve innovation and impact through collaboration.

Minimum Qualifications: Ph.D. degree obtained within the last 5 years in Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or related fields.

Preferences:
Experience with cell culture (microbial and mammalian), fluorescence techniques (e.g., flow cytometry, microscopy) and/or structural methods (SAXS, cryo-EM, NMR) is desired.

To Apply: Interested candidates should email a single PDF file containing a cover letter, a detailed CV, and the names and contact information of three references to: https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/103018

Closing Date: Review of candidates will continue until position is filled.

Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify you from employment.

The University of Maryland, College Park, an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action; all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, creed, marital status, political affiliation, personal appearance, or on the basis of rights secured by the First Amendment, in all aspects of employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.

Women, minorities, LGBTQ+, veterans, and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.