Postdoctoral Scientist- Antimicrobial Discovery

RTI International (RTI) is both a global research institute and a leading international development organization based out of North Carolina. At RTI, you will find work you believe in, tackling some of the most complex global challenges of our time. Our mission is to impact the wellbeing of 1 billion people by 2030 through science-based solutions in climate, education, health, and equity. Our staff promote meaningful change around the world helping people live healthier, more productive, and more independent lives.

If you are looking for an opportunity to make a real difference, RTI is the place for you. Join us in our commitment to teamwork, belonging, and the passion to change the world.

The Center for Drug Discovery is seeking a highly motivated and independent postdoctoral researcher with expertise in microbiology and chemistry to contribute to cutting-edge antimicrobial drug discovery. This position focuses on identifying and optimizing natural products with novel mechanisms of action, particularly those effective against drug-resistant Gram-negative pathogens.

Ideal candidates will have a strong background in microbiology, natural product chemistry, and antimicrobial testing, and a passion for addressing the urgent global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.

We offer a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, parental leave, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a 401(k) retirement plan.

This is a one-year, full-time position with the potential for annual renewal based on performance and funding.

In this role, you will design and execute a range of microbiological and chemical experiments, including screening assays and compound characterization, with a focus on understanding natural products-examining their structure, biosynthetic pathways, and mechanisms of action. You will conduct both in vitro and in vivo studies to validate the antimicrobial activity of lead compounds. Responsibilities also include analyzing experimental data, maintaining accurate and thorough records, and contributing to the preparation of scientific manuscripts. Staying up to date with the latest research in the field is essential. Additionally, you will assist in the development of grant applications and help train and mentor junior team members.

• PhD in microbiology or a related field of study
• Extensive experience working with a variety of microorganisms
• Deep knowledge of microbial physiology
• Solid background in molecular biology and bacterial genetics
• Ability to work independently and in a collaboration
• Proficiency in English
• Basic computational skills

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience in antibiotic discovery or antimicrobial resistance
• Ability to generate and analyze big datasets
• Knowledge of chromatography and mass spectrometry
• Proficiency in high-throughput sequencing and screening.
• Experience with in vivo models of infection

For San Francisco, CA USA Job Postings Only: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Further information is available here.

RTI accepts applications to our job openings from candidates with criminal histories or conviction records in accordance with all applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.

For Applicants in Massachusetts Only: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

The anticipated pay range for this role is listed below. Our pay ranges represent national averages and may vary by location as a geographic differential may be applied to some locations within the United States. RTI considers multiple factors when making an offer including, for example: established salary range, internal budget, business needs, and education and years of work experience possessed by the applicant. Further, salary is merely one element to our offer.

At RTI, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes (among other things) a competitive base salary, a generous paid time off policy, merit based annual increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k) plan, paid parental leave for all parents, financial assistance with adoption expenses or infertility treatments, financial reimbursement for education and developmental opportunities, an employee assistance program, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.