Staff Scientist II

rigor, and providing advanced training and mentorship to trainees at all levels, including undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior investigators. The Staff Scientist II integrates research activities with the educational mission of the University by fostering a high-quality, hands-on training environment. ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities are listed in order of priority: 1. Advanced In Vivo Research & Model Development Conduct and oversee complex in vivo rodent studies in neuroscience, including maintenance of genetically engineered mouse colonies, behavioral testing, tissue dissection, and implementation of disease models. Perform procedures ranging from compound dosing and injections to advanced surgical interventions, including anesthesia and euthanasia support. 2. Experimental Design & Independent Research Leadership Independently design, develop, and implement innovative experimental approaches and new disease models. Lead components of research programs, contributing to study design, troubleshooting, and optimization of methodologies to support high-impact publications and grant applications. 3. Training, Mentorship & Workforce Development Provide comprehensive training and supervision to undergraduate students, graduate trainees, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. Ensure proper experimental techniques, data integrity, and adherence to laboratory protocols. Mentor trainees in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, directly supporting the integration of research and education. 4. Grant Support & Data Generation Contribute to the generation of preliminary and ongoing data required for grant submissions, renewals, and progress reports. Support multiple concurrent projects to ensure timely completion of research milestones. 5. Industry Collaboration & Research Partnerships Serve as a liaison with pharmaceutical and industry partners to establish and maintain research collaborations and contracts, enhancing translational impact and external funding opportunities. 6. Molecular & Biochemical Research Support Perform and oversee advanced laboratory techniques including tissue processing, biochemical analyses, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and related methodologies. Ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and proper documentation of results. 7. Data Analysis, Management & Reporting Compile, process, and analyze experimental data. Maintain detailed and accurate research records, manage datasets, and prepare findings for presentations, publications, and reports. 8. Laboratory Operations & Equipment Oversight Ensure efficient laboratory operations, including management of workflows, coordination of experiments, and maintenance and operation of scientific equipment such as spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes. 9. Compliance & Safety Ensure adherence to institutional, regulatory, and safety guidelines related to animal research, laboratory procedures, and data management. 10. Additional Duties Perform other related duties as assigned. REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Extensive (>20 years) experience in rodent research in neuroscience and inflammation Extensive experience in biochemical and molecular biology techniques Extensive experience conducting PK/PD studies Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute complex experiments Proven track record of training and mentoring individuals across all levels, from students to junior faculty Strong knowledge of experimental design and pharmacology in a translational research setting Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills Strong verbal and written communication skills Supervisory and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead in a collaborative environment Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving research priorities MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Bachelors degree in a scientific discipline or related field required; advanced degree preferred. Extensive hands-on laboratory experience and specialized knowledge in neuroscience research methodologies required.