Staff Scientist

Guidehouse•Bethesda, MD

1d•$98,000 - $163,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are currently searching for Staff Scientist to provide scientific and analytical expertise which contributes toward satisfying the overall operational objectives of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. This is a full-time, on-site opportunity in Bethesda, MD. Master and conduct standard experimental protocols required for processing and analyzing clinical samples relevant to the research program. Lead mechanism studies and molecular analyses to understand the therapeutic effects of new drug candidates in ongoing or potential clinical trials, with a focus on their anti-sickling effects. Evaluate the clinical benefits of mitapivat (a pyruvate kinase activator) on reducing inflammation in sickle cell disease (SCD), assessing outcomes beyond increased hemoglobin levels. Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to postdoctoral fellows, post-baccalaureate trainees, and junior staff to foster their scientific and professional development and facilitate successful completion of scientific projects. Participate in the scientific management and execution of clinical translational research projects. Conduct independent scientific research, including studies on SUMOylation as a regulatory layer of hemoglobin switching and its potential as a broadly accessible strategy for fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction in SCD and β-thalassemia. Investigate the post-translational mechanisms that enforce γ-globin silencing, including the role of SUMOylation in controlling the fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch. Assess the impact of inhibiting or genetically suppressing SUMOylation on γ-globin transcription in erythroid models (e.g., HUDEP2 cells and primary CD34⁺ progenitors). Elucidate the mechanisms by which SUMOylation regulates BCL11A protein stability, chromatin occupancy, and recruitment of SUMOylating machinery to GATA1 at the γ-globin promoter. Define dual SUMO-dependent mechanisms affecting BCL11A and GATA1, and their roles in regulating γ-globin transcription. Support the development of potent, broadly accessible small-molecule approaches to induce HbF, addressing the needs of SCD patients without access to gene therapy. Contribute to gaining further mechanistic insights into the pathophysiology of SCD and accelerating the development of new therapeutic drugs for SCD patients.

Requirements

PhD in Molecular Biology or related scientific field.
At least FOUR (4) years of experience processing and analyzing clinical samples.
Ability to manage and coordinate high-priority short- and long-term projects and studies in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated mastery of standard experimental protocols.
In-depth knowledge of molecular and mechanistic studies related to anti-sickling drug candidates.
Experience supporting postdoctoral fellows, trainees, and junior staff in research and professional development.
Advanced understanding of post-translational regulation of hemoglobin switching.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Federal or DoD "public trust"; candidates must obtain approved adjudication of their public trust prior to onboarding with Guidehouse. Candidates with an active public trust or suitability are preferred

Nice To Haves

Ability to be self-motivated, detail oriented, and have strong organizational skills.
Strong background in mentorship and scientific leadership
Strong communications skills, both oral and written.
Excellent analytical, organizational and time management skills.

Responsibilities

Master and conduct standard experimental protocols required for processing and analyzing clinical samples relevant to the research program.
Lead mechanism studies and molecular analyses to understand the therapeutic effects of new drug candidates in ongoing or potential clinical trials, with a focus on their anti-sickling effects.
Evaluate the clinical benefits of mitapivat (a pyruvate kinase activator) on reducing inflammation in sickle cell disease (SCD), assessing outcomes beyond increased hemoglobin levels.
Provide scientific leadership and mentorship to postdoctoral fellows, post-baccalaureate trainees, and junior staff to foster their scientific and professional development and facilitate successful completion of scientific projects.
Participate in the scientific management and execution of clinical translational research projects.
Conduct independent scientific research, including studies on SUMOylation as a regulatory layer of hemoglobin switching and its potential as a broadly accessible strategy for fetal hemoglobin (HbF) induction in SCD and β-thalassemia.
Investigate the post-translational mechanisms that enforce γ-globin silencing, including the role of SUMOylation in controlling the fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch.
Assess the impact of inhibiting or genetically suppressing SUMOylation on γ-globin transcription in erythroid models (e.g., HUDEP2 cells and primary CD34⁺ progenitors).
Elucidate the mechanisms by which SUMOylation regulates BCL11A protein stability, chromatin occupancy, and recruitment of SUMOylating machinery to GATA1 at the γ-globin promoter.
Define dual SUMO-dependent mechanisms affecting BCL11A and GATA1, and their roles in regulating γ-globin transcription.
Support the development of potent, broadly accessible small-molecule approaches to induce HbF, addressing the needs of SCD patients without access to gene therapy.
Contribute to gaining further mechanistic insights into the pathophysiology of SCD and accelerating the development of new therapeutic drugs for SCD patients.

Benefits

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Parental Leave
401(k) Retirement Plan
Group Term Life and Travel Assistance
Voluntary Life and AD&D Insurance
Health Savings Account, Health Care & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Transit and Parking Commuter Benefits
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development, Certifications & Learning Opportunities
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Care.com annual membership
Employee Assistance Program
Supplemental Benefits via Corestream (Critical Care, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, Legal Assistance and ID theft protection, etc.)