Staff Scientist

Staff Scientist:
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), National Institutes of Health (NIH), Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), is recruiting for a Staff Scientist within its Intramural Research Program (IRP) located in Baltimore, Maryland. The goal of this search is to identify a candidate who will carry out molecular modeling and simulation research using state‑of‑the‑art techniques to investigate structure‑function relationships of membrane proteins under the supervision of the Senior Investigator of the Computational Chemistry & Molecular Biophysics Section.

We are seeking a candidate who is committed to scientific excellence and understands the intellectual benefits of conducting cutting‑edge research on molecular mechanisms and drug discovery related to the therapeutic targets for substance use disorders. Applicants must hold a Ph.D. or equivalent degree in biophysics, computational chemistry, chemical physics, structural biology, or a related discipline, with demonstrated training in computational molecular biophysics and computational chemistry and at least three years of postdoctoral experience.

Criteria for selection include extensive hands‑on experience in molecular modeling and simulations, with evidence of leading such work. Specific experience with membrane proteins and demonstrated familiarity with enhanced sampling and free energy calculation techniques are required. The ideal candidate should possess strong programming skills for data analysis and automation, including demonstrated proficiency in using integrated development environments and version control tools to collaborate effectively with colleagues.

An excellent track record of peer‑reviewed publications and presentations at national and international conferences is required. Strong written and oral communication skills are essential. Experience with Linux systems administration, mentoring junior trainees, and establishing collaborations across different disciplines is highly desirable. Salary will be commensurate with experience.

A career with the U.S. Government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Learn more about federal benefits.

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non‑merit factor. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) for federal employees & job applicants.

If selected, you will be required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE Form 450 to determine if a conflict or an appearance of a conflict exists between your financial interest and your prospective position with the agency.

You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time during the application or hiring process or while on the job. Requests are considered on a case‑by‑case basis.

The position is open to both U.S. and non‑U.S. citizens. Interested candidates must submit a curriculum vitae, bibliography, a one‑page summary of research interests, and the names and contact information (work/email addresses, phone) of three references (via pdf or Microsoft word format only – paper applications will not be accepted) to:
Lei Shi, Ph.D., Chief, Computational Chemistry & Molecular Biophysics Section, NIDA, IRP:
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Last Updated: February 26, 2026