Research Associate

Compensation: $52,000- $55,000 annually based on skills and experience.

Position Summary

The VDJ laboratory (vdjlab.com) at the Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Therapeutics, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science, is hiring a Research Associate to advance our mission of unraveling synaptic degeneration mechanisms in Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. 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 and development.

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. RFU 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

• Lead an independent research project under the guidance of the PI, focused on understanding the mechanisms of synaptic degeneration in auxilin- and/or LRRK2-linked Parkinson's disease. Key projects are already at advanced stages and have the potential to lead to publications within a relatively short period.
• 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/interns 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/Cell Biology
• 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 iPSC to dopaminergic neuron differentiation will be advantageous.
• Experience or willing to learn performing experiments using mouse models, including immunoassays, primary neuronal cultures, 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