Post Doctoral Opportunity

The Effects of Complementary and Alternative Medicinal Agents In Human Stromal and Epithelial Prostate Cells in Vitro

An immediate postdoctoral position is available in the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Endocrine Section Intramural Laboratory to study the effects of steroid hormones and the role of the tissue microenvironment on normal and neoplastic human prostate stromal and epithelial cells.

The goal of this research is twofold. One part is to define hormonal-responsive paracrine signaling mechanisms involved in interactions between human prostate normal and cancer stromal and epithelial cells. We have specifically focused on the effects of the over-the-counter-supplement dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in the prostate and its effects on prostate epithelial cells as mediated by stromal cells. The other goal is to use this in vitro reproduction of endocrine, immune and paracrine interactions to test a variety of herbal-botanical agents that may target these signals modulating the response between stromal and epithelial cells. This integrative approach is important in the field of study of traditional and herbal medicines as the effects of these agents are likely multifocal, containing many active ingredients that target tissues/physiology through multiple mechanisms. This presents a challenge experimentally for the reductionist scientist but is vital to begin to understand mechanisms and forge the frontier of discovery in complementary and alternative medicine.

The NIH-NCCAM intramural research program is located on the Bethesda Maryland offering a wide array of training opportunities for scientists early in their careers. Access to extensive core facilities and collaborations with other NIH investigators, and potential translational research through the NIH clinical center provides creative resources for a productive postdoctoral opportunity. The Washington, D.C. area provides innumerable opportunities for cultural enrichment as well.

Candidates must have a Ph.D. and/or M.D degree awarded within the past 3 years and should demonstrate creativity, be highly motivated, work independently and have a strong background in molecular and cell biology, and tissue culture. Skills in biochemistry, genomics and proteomics are also helpful. Candidates should have a record of relevant peer-reviewed publications, and a solid command of English with the ability to speak and write effectively.

To apply send by mail or e-mail a CV, cover letter, a brief statement of research interests, and the names and telephone numbers of three references to:

Julia T. Arnold, PhD
Endocrine Section, Intramural Program
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
National Institutes of Health
Building 10, Rm 2B47 MSC-1547
Bethesda, MD 20892-1547
301-451-6711
jarnold@mail.nih.gov