Join the HJF Team!

The Postdoctoral Fellow is responsible for initiating and carrying out research projects in collaboration with a research team. Pursuits research along a focused line of inquiry and has a manuscript in development.

The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine (HJF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing military medicine. We serve military, medical, academic and government clients by administering, managing and supporting preeminent scientific programs that benefit members of the armed forces and civilians alike. Since its founding in 1983, HJF has served as a vital link between the military medical community and its federal and private partners. HJF's support and administrative capabilities allow military medical researchers and clinicians to maintain their scientific focus and accomplish their research goals.

This position will be in support of the laboratory of Dr. T John Wu with the Department of Gynecologic Surgery and Obstetrics. HJF provides scientific, technical and programmatic support services to the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences.

The incumbent will be part of an extramurally funded project to study the molecular and cellular mechanisms of sleep disruption on pre-clinical animal models. Using advanced biochemical, hormonal, imaging and genetic techniques, the project seeks to determine the neural stress pathways and potential neuroendocrine and neuroinflammatory biomarkers subsequent to sleep dysregulation to the brain. The broad interests of the laboratory are the study of neuroendocrine stress signaling and the development of therapeutics and biomarkers to improve recovery.

Assists in designing, developing, executing, and implementing scientific research and/or
development .
• Investigates the feasibility of applying a wide variety of scientific principles and theories to potential
  inventions and products.
• Performs specialized laboratory research utilizing experimental protocols which will involve
  procedures which as RNA isolation, molecular analysis of specific RNA transcripts by quantitative
  PCR or digital droplet PCR, western blotting, biochemical assays, cell/tissue culture and
  immunohistochemistry.
• Performs small animal surgeries, husbandry and behavioral experiments to determine the efficacy
  of therapeutics.
• Collects and handles samples and keeps detailed records of experiments.
• Prepares data for presentations at scientific meetings and for publication in journals.
• Assists with training laboratory staff as needed.
• Maintains cleanliness of laboratory areas.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

• This position will take place primarily in a laboratory setting.

Education and Experience

• Doctoral degree
• Minimum of 0-5 years experience required.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Experience with cell/tissue culture, biochemical and molecular techniques, pre-clinical animal behavioral techniques, microscopy and be highly motivated to perform cutting edge, independent research.

Physical Capabilities

• Long periods of standing and sitting
• Intricate work with hands
• Carrying of light and moderately heavy laboratory equipment

Work Environment

Laboratory environment

• May involve working with biohazardous materials
• May require working evenings and weekends

Education and Experience
* PhD in neuroscience, neuroendocrinology, molecular and cellular biology or related
* Minimum of 0-3 years experience required.

Background

Eligibility to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC); eligibility to obtain and hold a Public Trust
background.

All HJF employees are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19. Proof of vaccination or an approved religious or medical accommodation will be required.

Employment with HJF is contingent upon successful completion of a background check, which may include, but is not limited to, contacting your professional references, verification of previous employment, education and credentials, a criminal background check, and a department of motor vehicle (DMV) check if applicable. Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)

Any qualifications to be considered as equivalents, in lieu of stated minimums, require the prior approval of the Chief Human Resources Officer.