Staff Scientist - Developmental Biology

Position Summary Location

ST. LOUIS, MO 63110

40

The Mokalled Laboratory investigates the cellular and molecular mechanisms that enable successful spinal cord regeneration and applies these discoveries to mammalian models of nervous system repair. Our research integrates zebrafish genetics, human iPSC-derived neuronal models, single-cell genomics, advanced imaging, and functional assays to identify repair-associated cell states and therapeutic targets that promote neuronal survival, axon regeneration, and recovery after spinal cord injury.

The Staff Scientist will establish and optimize human iPSC-derived neuronal models, develop assays to investigate vesicular trafficking and activity-dependent neuronal repair, integrate mammalian systems with discoveries from zebrafish regeneration, and provide technical leadership and mentoring in advanced neuronal culture and imaging methodologies.

Designs research protocols. Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis and documentation of experiment results.

• Following instructions and discussions with the principal investigator, designs research protocols, including developing procedures for the collection, verification and management of data.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Performs complex statistical analysis of data collected and writes interpretative reports. Verifies the correctness of the data submitted and makes recommendations based on these analyses.
• Documents research topics and prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects. Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
• Conducts literature searches related to research project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

• Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards.
• Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Master's degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Laboratory Operations (3 Years)

Not Applicable

A driver's license is not required for this position.

• Ph.D. in Neuroscience, Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, or a related field.
• Experience with human iPSC-derived neuronal differentiation and culture.
• Expertise in mammalian neuronal biology, synaptic or vesicular trafficking, and advanced fluorescence microscopy.
• Experience with CRISPR, quantitative image analysis, and molecular biology techniques.
• Strong record of independent research and scientific communication.

Preferred Qualifications

Doctor of Philosophy

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Analytical Problem Solving, Communication, Computer Literacy, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations

R10

$48,000.00 - $86,900.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email Candidate Questions or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at  and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug…