Research Associate, Translational Research Fellow - Dept. Ophthalmology Visual & Anatomical Sciences

Research Associate, Translational Research Fellow - Dept. Ophthalmology Visual & Anatomical Sciences

Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Research Associate/Translational Research Fellow to join its Ophthalmology Visual & Anatomical Sciences department at its Detroit campus.

• Under direction of the Principal Investigator, provide scientific and technical assistance to complete laboratory‑based, clinical or population science research.
• Assist in designing and performing research protocols, recruiting participants, developing surveys, and conducting interviews.
• Ensure compliance with all legal, regulatory, and protocol guidelines.
• Collect, log, and analyze data using graphs, charts, or tables; proofread and edit research data and documents.
• Prepare and present findings at professional, scientific, and academic conferences; submit manuscripts to peer‑reviewed journals.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, order supplies, and keep work areas clean and organized.
• Assist mentor physicians in designing and executing basic‑science and translational projects with animal models and patient samples.
• Handle IRB and IACUC submissions and amendments for translational projects.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Work with retinal specialists and ophthalmology residents/fellows to enhance clinical diagnosis, treatment, and patient care.
• Contribute to ongoing clinical studies for patient recruitment and data collection.
• Engage in translational projects such as cornea prosthesis biocompatibility, rabbit retinal transplant, AAV‑mediated VEGF gene knockout, and related initiatives.

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field (preferred). The fellowship requires an M.D. or Ph.D. in genetics, neuroscience, molecular biology, biomedical engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum two years of job‑related experience performing basic research techniques.
• Strong time‑management, organization, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of scientific integrity principles.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques: cell culture, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, cryosectioning, tissue staining, immunohistochemistry.
• Experience with animal models (rabbit or rodent), AAV vector design, CRISPR/Cas mutagenesis, and single‑cell RNA sequencing.
• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools (R, MATLAB, or Python).

• Prior research experience in ophthalmology, vision science, neuroscience, or biomedical engineering.
• Experience with CRISPR technology.

• Regular Employee
• Full Time
• Research

Typical work environment may include a laboratory or clinical setting. Non‑standard business hours, evenings, weekends, and travel to scientific conferences may be required.

University policy requires certain employees to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work.