The Pasca Lab in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences is seeking a Senior Staff Scientist (Life Science Research Professional 3) with advanced experience in neuroscience. Research will focus on advanced functional readouts of neural organoid and assembloid to understand the mechanisms of human neuropsychiatric disorders.
Responsibilities for this position include functional assays of neural organoids and assembloids. The LSRP-3 will perform and analyze experiments in electrophysiology, molecular and cell biology, microscopy applying advanced knowledge of neurobiology. The successful candidate will have tissue culture background and advanced experience in neuroscience. The LSRP-3 would be expected to conduct experiments under the supervision of the PI, but also design and lead independent projects. Because the LSRP-3 will frequently interact with a team of graduate and postdoctoral researchers, he or she must have the ability to communicate clearly scientific concepts.
Duties include:
- Design research approaches for a major portion of research project(s), including background research, experimental design and execution, problem-solving, and writing up for publication.
- Develop new protocols; test and evaluate a variety of approaches.
- Perform complex (lab and/or field) experiments and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes; analyze and interpret research data resulting from original procedures and methods.
- Assist with new research proposals and applications for funding and grants.
- Lead or participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
- Prepare periodic progress reports or written reports on all phases of the research project.
- Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section. May be a co-author on publications. Present ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences.
- Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; propose new research directions based on new advances discussed in literature.
- Oversee supply and equipment budget under minimal supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
- Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
- Formally supervise and train new staff or students as needed, including hiring, performance management, and related duties, in addition to instruction on techniques and consultation on project work.
DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- PhD or MS in a Biological Sciences or related field with advance experience in a laboratory setting.
- Experience with neuroscience, stem cell biology, molecular and cell biology, microscopy and flow cytometry.
- Thorough training and knowledge in the area of cell culture and aseptic techniques.
- Project management skills.
- Teaching experience.
- Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
- The ability to communicate in a very proficient way scientific concepts both verbally and in writing.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):
Bachelor's degree in related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; or Master’s degree in a related scientific field and two years relevant experience; or PhD in related science field.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES (REQUIRED):
- Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
- Expert level knowledge and skills in neuroscience and disease modeling, including advanced functional assays.
- General computer skills, experience with databases and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
- Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
- Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
- Developing project management skills.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
- Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
- Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
- Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
- Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
- Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
- Position may require repetitive motion.
WORKING CONDITIONS:
- May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
- May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
- Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
- Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
- May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.
* - Stanford is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.
