Postdoctoral vacancy on MECHANISMS OF RETINOID METABOLISM IN THE RETINA at THE NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE, BETHESDA, MD

MECHANISMS OF RETINOID METABOLISM IN THE RETINA

THE NATIONAL EYE INSTITUTE, BETHESDA, MD

A postdoctoral research position is available immediately in the Molecular Mechanisms Section, Laboratory of Retinal Cell & Molecular Biology, National Eye Institute (NEI), National Institutes of Health (NIH), to study the biochemical mechanisms of retinoid metabolism and isomerization in the retina/retinal pigment epithelium. The Molecular Mechanisms Section conducts exciting research into retinoid/carotenoid metabolism, and derangements thereof in blindness, with a long record of achievement in this area. Our focus is on the vitamin A visual cycle that provides the 11-cis retinal chromophore essential for vision. (For more information please see http://www.nei.nih.gov/intramural/mol_mech_sec.asp).

Our overall goal is a better understanding of vitamin A and its metabolites in vision and in retinal degenerations, and in developing therapies to treat derangements of retinoid metabolism. Current projects include structural studies on the enzymatic mechanism of RPE65/retinol isomerase, analysis of RPE65 knockin mouse models to understand chromophore requirements for photoreceptor viability, and the biochemistry of bisretinoid accumulation in retinal diseases. We have access to a wide range of NEI core facilities, including biological imaging, genetic engineering, visual function, mass spectrometry, bioinformatics resources, etc., and to additional expertise at the NIH Bethesda campus. Training will be provided as required.

Requirements:

We are seeking well-trained applicants with a Ph.D. or M.D./Ph.D., and a strong background in biochemistry or chemistry, and/or molecular biology, and less than 5 years of postdoctoral experience in cognate areas of research. The candidate must be highly motivated and have excellent verbal/written communications and organizational skills. Prior experience in mass spectrometry methods is a plus.

To Apply:

Please send CV and bibliography, a summary of research accomplishments, description of research interests and career goals, and the names and addresses of three references to: Dr. T. Michael Redmond by email at redmond@helix.nih.gov .