HU
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
full-time•Washington•$50k - $60k
About this role
The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission.
At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.
Here is what we offer:
- Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
- Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
- Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
- Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
- Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture
Join Howard University and thrive with us!
https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness
JOB PURPOSE:
Conduct NIH-funded research on RNA-based gene regulation in Staphylococcus aureus, a gram-positive bacterial pathogen prone to cause multi-drug-resistant bloodstream infections. The specific focus will be on small proteins, small RNAs, and tRNA modifications. The postdoctoral research fellow will lead experiments investigating RNA–RNA and RNA–protein interactions in bacterial stress adaptation and virulence.
SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:
Dr. Karl M. Thompson, Ph.D. – Associate Professor and University Biosafety Officer
NATURE AND SCOPE:
This is a lab-based research position in molecular microbiology. The Fellow will:
Perform functional studies of small protein and RNA function and interactions using and combination of molecular genetics (mutants, over-expression, gene-fusions, two-hybrid constructs); biochemical and biophysical tools (e.g., AUC, MST, SEC-MALS).
Conduct RNA stability assays, RIP-seq, and bacterial genetics.
Collaborate on in vivo studies and murine infection models.
Contribute to mentoring, manuscript writing, and data presentation.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:
· Design and execute experiments on RNA regulators and stress-response pathways.
· Analyze and interpret data from RNA-protein and RNA-RNA interaction assays.
· Generate and characterize mutant bacterial strains.
· Maintain detailed lab records and uphold research rigor.
· Support manuscript and grant preparation.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
· Strong background in molecular microbiology and RNA biology.
· Experience with RNA-binding assays, RIP/qPCR/seq, and transcript stability analysis.
· Familiarity with protein–RNA interaction techniques and bacterial genetics.
· Strong analytical and communication skills.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
· PhD in Microbiology, Biochemistry, or related field.
· Track record in RNA biology or microbial gene regulation.
· Hands-on experience with relevant molecular techniques.
· Prior S. aureus or Gram-positive pathogen work preferred
Compliance Salary Range Disclosure
$50,000-$60,000
What you'll do
- The Fellow will conduct NIH-funded research focusing on RNA-based gene regulation in Staphylococcus aureus, specifically investigating small proteins, small RNAs, and tRNA modifications. Key duties include leading experiments on RNA interactions, performing functional studies using molecular and biochemical tools, and contributing to mentoring and manuscript writing.
About Howard University
Howard University Graduate School offers 44 programs and over 100 specializations. Our wide-ranging programs consistently aid students in successfully obtaining post-graduate degrees. Students accepted to Howard University’s Graduate School are not only equipped with tools to be successful but they are encouraged to develop thought processes that enable them to seek truth and provide service to communities around the world.
Being a part of an institution that is currently ranked No. 30 in the "Nation's Most Innovative Schools" list issued by U.S. News & World Report, we are proud to maintain our consistency in producing the nation's largest number of African-American on-campus doctoral degree recipients. We are committed to maintaining Howard University’s unique mission that amplifies its core values of leadership, excellence, truth and service.
Howard University is a comprehensive, research-intensive historically black private university located in Washington, D.C. Total enrollment is approximately 11,000 students in its undergraduate, graduate, professional, and joint degree programs, which span more than 120 areas of study within 13 schools and colleges, the University is dedicated to educating students from diverse backgrounds. Since its founding in 1867, Howard has awarded more than 120,000 degrees and certificates in the arts, the sciences, and the humanities.
Ready to join Howard University?
Take the next step in your career journey
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Howard University pay for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow?
Howard University offers a competitive compensation package for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow role. The salary range is USD 50k - 60k per year. Apply through Clera to learn more about the full compensation details.
What does a Postdoctoral Research Fellow do at Howard University?
As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Howard University, you will: the Fellow will conduct NIH-funded research focusing on RNA-based gene regulation in Staphylococcus aureus, specifically investigating small proteins, small RNAs, and tRNA modifications. Key duties include leading experiments on RNA interactions, performing functional studies using molecular and biochemical tools, and contributing to mentoring and manuscript writing..
Is the Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at Howard University remote?
The Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at Howard University is based in Washington, District of Columbia, United States. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.
How do I apply for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at Howard University?
You can apply for the Postdoctoral Research Fellow position at Howard Universitydirectly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process.