Research Associate

Compensation: $50,000 - $52,000 - based on experience and includes benefits

Position Summary

The VDJ laboratory (vdjlab.com) at the Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Therapeutics, Rosalind Franklin University, is hiring a Research Associate to advance our mission of unraveling synaptic degeneration mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and aging. Our work integrates mouse models and human iPSC-derived neurons, employing cutting-edge techniques in histopathology, microscopy, biochemistry, subcellular proteomics, mouse behavior, viral gene manipulation, and cell biology.

We offer a competitive compensation package and the opportunity to grow in a small, diverse, and supportive research environment. You will develop and lead an independent high-impact research project, under the guidance of the PI, that aligns with the lab's objectives of understanding synaptic degeneration in Parkinson's disease. You will build on your solid foundation in neurodegeneration/cell biology research and receive personalized mentorship and support towards establishing a successful career in neuroscience/neurodegeneration research.

Our generous benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision plans; paid parental leave; short term and long-term disability plans; life insurance; flexible spending accounts; and a 403(b) retirement plan which includes a 8% employer contribution after 2 years of service. RFUMS is committed to employee wellbeing and work-life balance. Full time staff are eligible for 3 weeks of vacation/ personal leave, 15 sick days, and 9 paid holidays, paid winter break, plus two floating holidays.

Who We Are

Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU) is a graduate health sciences university committed to serving the population through the interprofessional education of health and biomedical professionals and the discovery of knowledge dedicated to improving wellness. The university embodies the spirit of inquiry and excellence modeled by its namesake Dr. Rosalind Franklin, whose Photo 51 was crucial to solving the structure of DNA.

Today, the university's 6 colleges continue Dr. Franklin's legacy through rigorous academics, pioneering research, and innovative community service. Our unique interprofessional education model allows students to learn from and with each other in a variety of settings, including our simulation labs, the student-led Interprofessional Community Clinic, and through partnerships with area hospitals and clinics. RFU is a national leader in interprofessional research and practices, and is nationally recognized for its research in areas including neuroscience, brain-related diseases, inherited disorders, proteomics, cancer cell biology and immunology, cardiac resuscitation, and gait and balance.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and lead an independent research project, under the guidance of the PI, focused on understanding the mechanisms of synaptic degeneration in auxilin- or LRRK-linked Parkinson's disease.

• Conduct experiments using human iPSC-derived neurons, mouse brains and primary cultures, and SH-SY5Y cell lines to achieve the research objectives.

• Mentor and guide students in the lab.

• Communicate research findings through high-quality publications, while actively contributing to the development of new, impactful research directions and proposals.

Conditions of Employment

• Must achieve satisfactory results from a background check

Required Education & Experience

• PhD in Neuroscience/Neurodegeneration

• Experience in cell culture development and maintenance, mainly in iPSCs-derived neurons, and proficiency with viral vectors, sub-cloning, transfection techniques, live-cell imaging, PCR, and Western blotting. Experience with CRISPR-Cas9 will be advantageous.

• Experience or willing to learn performing experiments using mouse models, including immunoassays, primary neuronal cultures, behavior assays, neurochemistry, and stereotaxic injections.

Required Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• A genuine passion for neuroscience, neurodegeneration and Parkinson's disease, coupled with the willingness, dedication, and perseverance needed to excel in and complete the chosen tasks.

• Proven interest and ability to learn new concepts and master new techniques.

• Ability to work both independently and in a team, with good communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, and meticulous record keeping.

• Ability to think strategically and work effectively in a fast-paced environment with excellent time management skills, strong scientific rigor, and attention to detail.

• Demonstrates honesty and integrity in all professional interactions and tasks.

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong background in using human iPSC-derived neurons to answer questions in Parkinson's disease with a proven track record of success (e.g., publication as a lead author)

Typical Physical Demands & Working Conditions

• Selected candidate must have the mental and physical capabilities to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations.

EOE, Including Disability / Vets