Researcher, Research​/Development, Research Scientist

Job Summary

The Waisman Center is dedicated to the advancement of knowledge about human development, developmental disabilities, and neurodegenerative diseases throughout the lifespan. One of 15 centers of its kind in the United States, the Waisman Center encompasses laboratories for biomedical and behavioral research, several scientific research cores, and a clinical biomanufacturing facility for the production of pharmaceuticals for early-stage human clinical trials.

In addition to its research efforts, the Center provides an array of services to people with developmental disabilities, offers numerous educational and outreach programs to young children and their families, and trains scientists and clinicians who will serve our nation in the future.

The Chang Laboratory uses human stem cell models and animal models to study the molecular mechanism of Rett syndrome and to develop effective treatment for the disease.

The Researcher will work in the Chang Laboratory to grow human pluripotent stem cells, differentiate them into astrocytes, neurons, and microglia, characterize the difference between Rett syndrome cells and control cells, and test whether trofinetide and other reagents rescues any of the deficits in these cellular assays. The researcher is expected to collaborate with other researchers in the Chang Lab on other ongoing research projects that broadly study mammalian brain development and neurodevelopmental disorders, using modern molecular, cellular, and omics techniques.

The researcher will also have opportunities to train and supervise both graduate students and undergraduate students.

• Collects and analyzes basic research data, conducts experiments and interviews, and documents results according to established policies and procedures
• Assists with the development of research methodologies and procedures
• Identifies concerns and recommends solutions to leadership
• Trains individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area
• Assists in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding
• Conducts literature reviews, prepares reports and materials, and disseminates information to appropriate entities and assists with publications

Waisman Center

$55,000 minimum; salary is negotiable and will be based on education, experience and skills. Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and paid time off; competitive insurances and savings accounts and retirement benefits.

Four years of experience in growing human pluripotent stem cells and differentiating them into neurons and astrocytes. Undergraduate/Graduate Research experience and/or Postdoc experience in this area may be considered.

Experience in standard molecular biology and biochemistry lab techniques, including DNA/RNA/Protein extraction, PCR, and Western blot.

A Bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field is required; A Master’s Degree or PhD in Biology or a related field preferred.

• A Criminal Background Check will be performed.
• The successful applicant will be required to complete HIPAA training and receive certification upon hire and annually thereafter.

For questions regarding this position or posting, please contact Melissa Henning, Human Resources Manager, at  or melissa.henning.

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

Qualified…