Research Scientist, Neuroscience

Why join UT Southwestern’s Neuroscience Department?

Neuroscience is an integrated research discipline that seeks to understand the development and function of the nervous system. At UT Southwestern, the Department of Neuroscience concentrates on projects that have a significant impact on understanding neurological and psychiatric diseases.

Job Summary

Dr. Helen Lai has a strong interest in understanding the molecular and circuit mechanisms that underlie sensorimotor behavior, with a focus on pain and proprioception. Lai’s laboratory is looking for an enthusiastic and responsible Research Scientist to play a leadership role in generating molecular and anatomical atlases of the developing mouse spinal cord. The goal is to understand the processes by which discrete developmental progenitor domains give rise to the diversity of cell types in the adult spinal cord. The role will provide extensive training in cutting-edge -omics technologies, and the generated dataset will offer numerous research avenues for the candidate’s future independent research endeavors.

Department Expectations

·       A highly motivated, enthusiastic, and inquisitive candidate with a background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or neuroscience.

·       Experience with sc/snRNA-seq and ATAC-seq, 10x Genomics sequencing technologies.

·       Experience with standard molecular biology, histology techniques, and mouse colony maintenance.

·       Experience or familiarity with spatial transcriptomics technologies a plus.

·       Team player who works well with others.

·       Excellent verbal, written, organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

Experience and Education

·       Ph.D. degree with major coursework in field of assignment and five (5) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least two (2) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. or

·       Master’s degree with major coursework in field of assignment and seven (7) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least three (3) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. or

·       Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in field of assignment and nine (9) years research experience in field of assignment, including at least four (4) years at level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent.

Job Duties

·       Plans, organizes, coordinates, directs, and personally participates in assigned scientific or medical research projects. Selects or assists in selection of key research personnel. Determines specific goals or objectives to be attained and assigns and reviews work of subordinates. Plans experimental protocols.

·       Reviews and analyzes resulting research data. Revises techniques or approaches to work problems as indicated necessary by research data.

·       Compiles, writes, and submits research results to supervisor. Prepares or assists in preparation of research papers, reports, and abstracts for publication as one of co-authors.

·       Designs, develops, or adapts equipment used in experiments or research to obtain desired results.

·       Plans and supervises training of technicians and other laboratory personnel with respect to proper laboratory techniques, use of laboratory equipment, and safety procedures.

·       May confer with industrial, governmental, or other groups concerning progress or results of research project.

·        Performs other duties as assigned.

To learn more about the benefits UT Southwestern offers, visit https://www.utsouthwestern.edu/employees/hr-resources/

This position is security-sensitive and subject to Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes UT Southwestern to obtain criminal history record information. UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community.  As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status. 

To learn more, please visit:  https://jobs.utsouthwestern.edu/why-work-here/diversity-inclusion