Staff Scientist – Griffin Lab

Position Overview and Responsibilities

The Griffin Lab at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation is seeking a motivated staff scientist interested in ocular vascular biology. Our lab studies vascular development and maintenance. Our long term goal is to generate insights that can be exploited for developing therapeutic approaches to combat vascular pathologies. Genetic mouse models are a cornerstone of the lab and we are currently using such models coupled with human cells and tissues to study roles for ATP dependent chromatin remodeling enzymes, protease activated receptors, and the intracellular kinase RIPK3 in endothelial cells.

We also are fascinated by the understudied process of capillary regression and we are doing pioneering work to define triggers, molecular effectors, and consequences of this process in eyes, kidneys and hearts. We hope to leverage these discoveries to block pathological vascular regression which drives ischemic tissue damage in these and additional organs under numerous disease contexts. The staff scientist will lead independent projects and contribute to team projects primarily focused on capillary health and regression in the eye.

The position offers opportunities to leverage existing ocular biology expertise while developing new vascular biology knowledge and skills.

• Develop, lead, and contribute to research projects related to diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, age‑related macular degeneration, and other ocular diseases characterized by capillary loss or dysfunction.
• Design and perform experiments using mouse models, tissue collection, histology, immunofluorescence, and ocular or visual function readouts.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data including data generated from mice, tissues, and cultured primary cells.
• Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, figures, and presentations.
• Present research findings at lab meetings, departmental seminars, and national or international conferences.
• Contribute to a collaborative and inclusive lab environment including mentoring trainees and working closely with other lab members and collaborators.

• PhD in a biological science, chemistry, physics, or other relevant area; MD or equivalent plus a minimum of six 6 years postdoctoral experience.
• Experience with experimental design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Strong interest in ocular vascular biology and related diseases.
• Specific skills sought include key eye research techniques such as electroretinography, optical coherence tomography, fundus retinal imaging, and intravitreal injections.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively; the successful candidate will be expected to contribute to both individual and team projects.
• Strong communication, organizational, and problem‑solving skills.

• Broad wet bench skills including molecular cloning, protein expression and purification, immunoblotting, viral preparation, and cell culture.
• Experience with mouse models, tissue dissection, histology, immunostaining, and microscopy.

Founded in 1946, the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation (OMRF) is among the nation’s oldest and most respected independent nonprofit biomedical research institutes. OMRF is dedicated to understanding and developing more effective treatments for human diseases focusing on critical research areas such as Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, lupus, multiple sclerosis, and cardiovascular disease. OMRF follows an innovative cross‑disciplinary approach to medical research and ranks among the nation’s leaders in patents per scientist.

Located in Oklahoma City, a city that offers a dynamic and flourishing downtown area with low cost of living, short commute times, and a diversified economy, OMRF has been voted one of the Top Workplaces since the inception of the award. This achievement has been accomplished thanks to OMRF individuals who share a unified understanding that our excellence can only be fully realized with a collective commitment to our mission so that more may live longer, healthier lives.

Successful candidates will demonstrate commitment to this mission.

We offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits to full‑time employees, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; minimum 8 company retirement contribution; vacation and sick leave, and paid holidays. All employees have access to our onsite café, free onsite fitness center with access to personal trainer, free parking, and much more. Relocation assistance is available for those located 50 miles outside of Oklahoma City metro.

Learn more about our benefits here. OMRF is an Equal Opportunity Employer.