Research Scholar, Senior Principal-Epigenetics

Are you a driven scientist passionate about the genetics and epigenetics of mental health? The Dunn Lab at Purdue University, led by Dr. Erin

C. Dunn, is seeking a Senior Principal Research Scholar-Epigenetics to contribute to pioneering research that integrates social and biological sciences to address mental health challenges. In this role, you will function as a senior research scientist, supporting the science of the Dunn Lab. You will oversee day-to-day research operations focused on computational genetics and epigenetics, contributing to study design, data analysis, and the mentorship of lab members.

This position offers career stability outside the tenure track and the chance for additional experience and mentorship.

The Senior Principal Research Scholar:
Epigenetics will work in close collaboration with the Lab Principal Investigator (Dr. Dunn) to design and direct research projects related to the epigenetic work of the Dunn Lab. You will be instrumental in developing new studies, leading a multidisciplinary team, and ensuring the success of our research projects. You will be one of two research scholars in the lab, with the other focused on the lab’s novel work using baby teeth to understand mental health.

This position offers career stability outside the tenure track and the chance for additional experience and mentorship. Learn more about our research at Dunn Lab and Purdue University in Indianapolis.

• Oversee day-to-day operations of computational based genetics and epigenetics research projects.
• Lead study design, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Oversee day-to-day supervision and mentoring lab members, including postdoctoral fellows and research assistants.
• Contribute to grant writing, including identifying funding opportunities and assembling applications.
• Write and present scholarly work for both academic and broader audiences.
• Present findings at national and international conferences.
• Co-develop long-term research strategies in collaboration with Dr. Dunn.
• Execute tasks with a high attention to detail.
• Self-start tasks and find areas for improvement throughout the lab.

• PhD in epidemiology, public health, genetics, epigenetics, or another social or biological science.
• Five years of research experience, two or more are post‑doctoral.
• Epigenetics and statistical research background in an academic setting.
• Experience working with longitudinal omics‑related data.
• A working knowledge of R and data analysis pipelines.
• Experience supervising teams of 3 or more members.

• Experience in fast‑paced, multi‑disciplinary research environment.
• Strong knowledge data analysis pipelines.
• Advanced knowledge of statistical and epidemiological study design.
• Proven ability to learn new computational tools and packages.
• Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Understanding of data management and data analysis workflows.
• Excellent written and verbal communications skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to interpret acceptability of data.
• High degree of computer literacy.
• Careful attention to detail.
• Good organizational skills.
• Ability to identify problems and develop solutions.

• Advanced knowledge of statistical and epidemiological study design in an academic research setting.
• Prior experience with cross‑disciplinary collaborations and departments in an academic setting.
• Past experience in teaching, instruction, or mentorship.

• For full consideration, please include an updated cover letter and resume with your application materials.
• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position.
• A background check will be required for employment in this position.
• FLSA:
  Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:
  Defined Contribution Waiting Period