Staff Scientist

Staff Scientist – Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago

Pay range: $70,000.00 – $90,000.00 per year (base salary). The actual pay will be based on skills and experience.

Department: BSD MGC – Munro Lab

About the Department Collectively, members of the Department of Molecular Genetics and Cell biology are engaged in investigating molecular aspects of biological phenomena that operate on a cellular scale. Faculty research employs a combination of advanced microscopy, genetic analysis, and molecular characterization to study the temporal and spatial mechanisms that underlie the essential functions of cells and of their interactions with other cells that are necessary for the regular development of multicellular organisms.

Faculty use many of the field’s traditional model organisms in their work and are pushing into emerging model and non-model organisms that are proving uniquely valuable in particular studies. To learn more about our department, (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). 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.

Job Summary The Staff Scientist will execute, facilitate, and promote advanced technical and scientific research projects; this position will combine extensive use of molecular biology approaches (cloning, PCR, sequencing, etc.), biophysical manipulations, and advanced light microscopy, to develop and test hypotheses related to the dynamic control of multicellular tissue morphogenesis in ascidian embryos. We are seeking a candidate who recognizes the need for innovation and develops or incorporates advances in assay development.

• Develop and support research and operations with the long‑term goal of understanding the dynamical control of tissue morphogenesis during early development.
• Design, develop, and test new experimental workflows, instruments, analysis, and/or reagents for research (including hardware, software, statistical methods, etc.).
• Train and assist other lab users, as prescribed by the Principal Investigator, in various aspects of ascidian embryology, cell biological methods, molecular biology, microscopy, image processing and data analysis.
• Participate in the preparation and writing of grant applications and reports, and co‑author scientific research manuscripts.
• May present work at scientific meetings and provide peer review of grant applications and scientific manuscripts.
• Perform other related work as needed, with respect to this and other related projects, data organization and management, procurement of research supplies, management of regulatory documents (IACUC/IBC).
• Collaborate with other researchers as appropriate.
• Serve as a resource for collecting data and performing analysis; contribute to facilitating and promoting a research project by providing scientific or intellectual information.
• Lead contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Train new laboratory personnel.
• Perform other related work as needed.

None specified.

• Ph.D. in a related field.
• Knowledge and skills developed through 2–5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

• Postdoctoral training.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to train others.
• Knowledge of regulatory policies and procedures.
• Attention to detail.
• Organizational skills.
• Verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks under performance and time‑related stress.

• Lab environment.
• Weekend/Evening hours: occasionally.

• Resume (required)
• Cover Letter (required)

Benefits Eligible Yes. The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the…