Department
 

BSD NEU - Mastrianni Lab

About the Department
 

The Department of Neurology at The University of Chicago Medical Center has a great history and tradition, having made significant contributions to neurological training, clinical care, and the basic understanding of neurological disease.

Job Summary
 

The Research Professional will investigate the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms responsible for distinct neurological disorders using genetic mouse models. The individual will be responsible for using a variety of molecular biological, biochemical, cell biological, histological, physiological and behavioral approaches to characterize mouse models that display symptoms of neurological disorders. A major emphasis will be to develop strategies for treatment of prion diseases. A newly developed transgenic mouse that models genetic prion disease will form the basis of these studies. Using drug treatments and genetic approaches, such as conditional knockdown, RNAi, inducible constructs, the aim will be to turn off prion protein expression or modify its’ cell biology in such a way as to render it non-toxic. RNAi experience in in vivo systems is a plus.
This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Responsibilities

• Perform basic scientific research using a variety of techniques and approaches to gain a better understanding of neurological conditions using genetic mouse model systems.

• Supervise Research Technician(s) that provide general technical support for all members of the laboratory.

• Assist and provide technical and general scientific advice to other members of the laboratory. 

• Assist or lead in identifying and applying for sources of outside funding.

• Assist in preparing manuscripts and presentations at meetings.

• Recognize abnormal results and troubleshoot conditions or procedures to correct problems.

• Adapt existing procedures to current work needs and make significant contributions to methodology.

• Summarize results and assist in interpreting experimental findings.   

• Performs experiments and collects and analyzes data. Participates in the promotion of a research project.

• Collaborates on development of new research projects with academic and community-based organizations.

• Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
 

Education:

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

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Work Experience:

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

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Certifications:

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Preferred Qualifications

Education:

• Doctoral degree in Biological Sciences or related field.
   

Experience:

• Postdoctoral level research experience.

• Broad knowledge in molecular and cell biological techniques.

• Experience in genetics, mouse models, histology and RNAi techniques (in vitro and in vivo ).

Preferred Competencies

• Analytical skills. 

• Problem-solving.

• Attention to detail.

• Organizational skills.

• Verbal and written communication skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Demonstrated ability to publish first-author peer-reviewed papers.

Application Documents

• Resume (required)

• Cover Letter (required)

When applying, the document(s) MUST  be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family
 

Research

Role Impact
 

Individual Contributor

FLSA Status
 

Exempt

Pay Frequency
 

Monthly

Scheduled Weekly Hours
 

40

Benefits Eligible
 

Yes

Drug Test Required
 

Yes

Health Screen Required
 

Yes

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
 

No

Posting Statement
 

The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/ Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

 

Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

 

We seek a diverse pool of applicants who wish to join an academic community that places the highest value on rigorous inquiry and encourages a diversity of perspectives, experiences, groups of individuals, and ideas to inform and stimulate intellectual challenge, engagement, and exchange.

 

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history.  A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment.  Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

 

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