Assistant Research Scientist – Neuroscience and Pharmacology (Tomchik Lab)

About the job

The Carver College of Medicine Department of Neuroscience and Pharmacology (Dr. Tomchik lab) is seeking an Assistant Research Scientist. This Assistant Research Scientist will assist in research that focuses on dissecting the mechanisms of learning and memory, neuronal plasticity, and how these are disrupted in genetic disorders such as neurofibromatosis type 1. The Tomchik lab focuses on neuronal circuit and metabolic contributions to disease. This research involves the common fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as well as human induced pluripotent stem cells, to uncover the genetic, neuronal circuit, and systemic mechanisms of neuronal function in normal conditions and disease models.

Key Areas Of Responsibility

• Experiments, Simulations, Modeling or Theoretical Investigations: Initiate research design and methodology. Originate design, research conduct, and coordination. Maintain laboratory equipment as needed. Develop hypotheses to be tested and select methodology. Work independently on complex research tasks with oversight by Faculty or Principal Investigator.
• Data/Research Analysis and Evaluation: Perform advanced data analysis techniques. Develop new applications of existing data analysis techniques.
• Dissemination of Research Results: May prepare and submit first author manuscripts for publication. Demonstrate strong publication record. May contribute to public data archives or other resources, e.g., software, models, or on-line tools to support scientific research.
• Research Proposals/Grants: Serve as co-PI, contribute to research proposals and funding agency reports. May write research proposal to obtain independent funding as PI. Select and purchase equipment as needed.
• Service: Seek leadership opportunities appropriate to the scientific discipline, which may include serving on proposal review panels. May serve on departmental or University committees. May organize outreach efforts in alliance with funding sources. Serve as a session chair or organize sessions at professional meetings.
• Human Resources/Supervision: Mentor graduate students. May provide functional and/ or administrative supervision for staff. Provide direction, assignments, feedback, coaching and counseling to assure outcomes are achieved. Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students, and the public.

Our mission is to inspire and educate world class health care providers and scientists for the people of Iowa and our global community. Researchers in the College’s over 280 laboratories are served by state-of-the-art core research facilities and research support facilities. Much of the research conducted is interdisciplinary and collaborations are fostered and coordinated through major research centers, institutes, and programs. Many faculty members are internationally renowned for their research. Two faculty members are Howard Hughes Institute Investigators, 12 are members of the Institute of Medicine and two are members of the National Academy of Sciences.

Position Summary

• Identify and define problems, solutions to which can be approached through a scientific research process
• Develop hypotheses to be tested and methodology for evaluating results
• Evaluate data to establish relevance to the problem or problems being evaluated
• Prepare research results for publication in peer-reviewed journals as well as invited reviews in books or review journals
• Prepare seminars, discussion and lectures for dissemination of knowledge and results of research at national and international meetings
• Develop new proposals for research and obtain support for new and/or continuing research activities
• Manage all or part of a research project including monitoring of project funds, as well as coordination of data generation and analysis
• Participate in determining research priorities and planning programs of research
• Train investigators and support staff as requested by supervisor
• Maintain effective working relationships with faculty, staff, students and the public

Percent of Time: 100%
Staff Type: Professional & Scientific
Type of Position: Specified Term. Initial appointment is for one year. Appointment may be extended based on performance and availability of funding.
Pay Grade: 5A – https://hr.uiowa.edu/professional-pay/compensation-plan-structure-a-FY18

Benefits Highlights

• Regular salaried position located in Iowa City, Iowa
• Fringe benefit package including paid vacation; sick leave; health, dental, life and disability insurance options; and generous employer contributions into retirement plans
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Required Qualifications

• D. in biology, neuroscience, or a related field
• Practical experience and knowledge of biology and neuroscience
• Working knowledge of basic neuroscience approaches, such as behavioral analysis, molecular biology, microscopy. Specific training will be provided
• Demonstrated excellent written and verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work autonomously, problem solve and effectively manage own time/workload to meet project goals with minimal oversight

Desirable Qualifications

• Previous experience 6 or more years of conducting highly technical and specialized scientific research
• Previous experience with Drosophila or human iPSCs
• Experience with in vivo imaging, electrophysiology, and/or behavioral analysis
• Experience with Matlab, Prism, Illustrator

Application Process: In order to be considered, applicants must upload a CV or resume, and cover letter (under submission relevant materials) that clearly address how they meet the listed required and desired qualifications of this position.

Job openings are posted for a minimum of 14 calendar days and may be removed from posting and filled any time after the original posting period has ended. Successful candidates will be subject to a credential and criminal background check. Up to 3 professional references will be requested at a later step in the recruitment process.

For additional questions, please contact Anne Phillips at anne-phillips@uiowa.edu.

Additional Information

• Classification Title: Asst Research Scientist/Engin
• Appointment Type: Professional and Scientific
• Schedule: Full-time

Compensation

• Pay Level: 5a

Contact Information

• Organization: Healthcare
• Contact Name: Anne Phillips
• Contact Email: anne-phillips@uiowa.edu

Please click here to apply.