Research Affiliate ; Post Doctoral JR

Research Affiliate I (Post Doctoral) JR-0001535

Applications to be submitted by May 05, 2025.

Compensation Grade: P99 (Research Affiliate I)

Minimum: $61,008.00 - Maximum: $61,008.00 Annually.

(OPH) WADS - Wadsworth Center

The Research Affiliate I will work with a Principal Investigator to develop post‑doctoral skills. The incumbent will investigate the unexpected complexities of quorum sensing (QS) regulation in Pseudomonas aeruginosa and other Gram‑negative pathogens. This project explores how protein–protein interactions influence promoter selectivity and transcriptional regulation by LuxR‑type QS receptors—a paradigm‑shifting concept in bacterial signaling networks. The incumbent will employ interdisciplinary techniques spanning molecular microbiology, proteomics, genomics, biochemistry, and structural biology to dissect the mechanisms by which accessory proteins control LuxR‑type receptor activity and promoter binding specificity.

For more information on the model system, please visit the lab website: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

• Perform ChIP‑seq and RNA‑seq to map global gene regulation by LuxR‑type transcription factors in Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Acinetobacter baumannii, Aeromonas hydrophila, and Chromobacterium violaceum.
• Generate and validate receptor‑specific antibodies.
• Identify and characterize novel receptor‑accessory protein interactions using mutagenesis screens (e.g., transposon or CRISPRi), FACS‑based assays, and protein interaction studies (co‑IP, bacterial 2‑hybrid); integrate computational tools (e.g., Alpha Fold Multimer) to model protein–protein interactions.
• Design and test mutant variants to probe the mechanistic basis of promoter selectivity.
• Contribute to manuscript writing, conference presentations, and other documents.

This position will be part of a dynamic team serving the Wadsworth Center’s mission in the New York State Department of Health’s efforts to protect and promote the health of New York’s citizens. Come be a part of Science in the Pursuit of Health®!

PhD in Biochemistry or Chemistry.

Experience with organic chemistry and chemical syntheses; experience designing or generating antibodies; experience authoring scientific manuscripts and a strong publication record.

Grant funded position. Compliance with funding requirements such as time and effort reporting, grant deliverables, and contract deliverables is required.

The selected candidate must reside within a reasonable commuting distance of the official work location specified in the job posting and must also be located in or willing to relocate to one of the following states:
New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Vermont, or Massachusetts, prior to hire. Telecommuting will not be available.

HRI participates in the E‑Verify Program.

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer/Qualified Individuals with Disabilities/Qualified Protected Veterans.

• Health, dental and vision insurance – Several comprehensive health insurance plans to choose from.
• Flexible benefit accounts – Medical, dependent care, adoption assistance, parking and transit.
• Generous paid time off – Paid federal and state holidays, paid sick, vacation and personal leave.
• Tuition support – Assistance available for individuals pursuing educational or training opportunities.
• Retirement Benefits – HRI is a participating employer in the New York State and Local Retirement System and offers optional enrollment in the New York State Deferred Compensation Plan. HRI provides a post‑retirement Health Benefits Plan for qualified retirees to use towards health insurance premiums and eligible medical expenses.
• Employee Assistance Program – Provides educational and wellness programs, training, and 24/7 confidential services to assist employees, both personally and professionally.