Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey is seeking a Post-Doctoral Fellow for NJMS-Microbiology. Participates in ongoing efforts to identify and test small molecule blockers of protein biosynthesis in microbes for discovery of new antibacterial drug treatments. We have previously developed a high throughput screening (HTS) assay which measures physical assembly of the complex between a genetically modified EF-Tu and tRNA, key components of the ribosomal translation machinery in microbes, in a GTP-dependent manner. Compounds which inhibit complex formation are candidate drug leads subject to further screening and testing. In a collaboration, the NCATS group of NIH has performed a few HTS runs with reagents we provided, and has obtained hundreds of hits for us to analyze for antibacterial activity. One hit identified in this screen, named MGC-10, is being further tested as a potential drug candidate.
This position is short-term (~3 months) and grant-funded, with the possibility of additional months upon the availability of grant funding.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
Performs scientific research (protein purification, biochemistry, enzymatic assays, microbiology, antibacterial screens, and molecular biology under the PI's guidance.
Communicates regularly with the P.I.'s.
Maintains detailed and accurate experimental records.
Participates and presents in journal clubs, seminars and conferences.
Reads current scientific and technical literature relevant to the laboratory's mission
Minimum Education and Experience:
Ph.D. in Biochemistry or Microbiology or Molecular Biology, or in a related field and significant research experience.
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is a leading national public research university and the state's preeminent, comprehensive public institution of higher education. Rutgers is dedicated to teaching that meets the highest standards of excellence; to conducting research that breaks new ground; and to turning knowledge into solutions for local, national, and global communities. As it was at our founding in 1766, the heart of our mission is preparing students to become productive members of society and good citizens of the world. Rutgers teaches across the full educational spectrum: preschool to precollege; undergraduate to graduate and postdoctoral; and continuing education for professional and personal advancement. Rutgers is New Jersey's land-grant institution and one of the nation's foremost research universities, and as such, we educate, make discoveries, serve as an engine of economic growth, and generate ideas for improving people's lives.
