Job Posting: Biologist, Retinal Pigment Epithelial (RPE) Physiology, National Eye Institute
A contract biologist position is available at the National Institutes of Health, National Eye Institute, Division of Intramural Research, Section on Epithelial and Retinal Physiology and Disease, in Bethesda, Maryland, to investigate the intracellular mechanisms that mediate retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) physiology
As one example, the RPE, located in the back of the eye, transports fluid and a variety of metabolites between the neural retina and the choroidal blood supply (Miller et al., Encyclopedia of the Eye, 2010). Many neurodegenerative diseases that originate in the RPE/retina complex result in severe vision loss or blindness following abnormal fluid accumulation in the extracellular (or subretinal) space between the distal retina and the RPE apical membrane (e.g., diabetic retinopathy, age related macular degeneration or AMD). The RPE can be thought of as a metabolic engine that can be activated to therapeutically reduce abnormal fluid accumulation in the distal retina. We utilize a variety of molecular and cell biology, cell physiology, biophysical, and animal model techniques to better understand the molecular and cellular basis for these degenerative diseases.
Applicants must have a strong background in one or more of the following areas: biophysics, bioengineering, electrical engineering, or physiology. This position requires prior experience working with custom made setups in one or more of the following areas: (1) electrophysiology and intracellular recording in single cells or epithelia; (2) intracellular imaging of small molecules in single cells or epithelia; and (3) measurements of fluid transport in cells or epithelia. Previous experience working with cell culture is desirable along with experience in cell biology. Good communication skills, both oral and written are required. Integrity, enthusiasm, motivation, flexibility, confidence, and outstanding collaborative skills are also required.
To apply:
Candidates should provide a CV and a list of three references to Dr. Kapil Bharti at kapilbharti@nei.nih.gov.
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