The Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program in the Wu Tsai Neuroscience Institute and Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences is seeking a Senior Staff Scientist (Life Science Research Professional 3) with advanced experience in stem cell biology and neuroscience to work with Dr Sergiu Pasca– The Uytengsu Director of the Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program. Research will focus on developing organoid and assembloid technologies to understand the molecular mechanisms of human neuropsychiatric disorders.

Responsibilities for this position include neural differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells as well as advanced phenotyping of 3D brain region specific organoids and assembloids. The LSRP-3 will perform and analyze experiments in molecular and cell biology, flow cytometry, microscopy applying advanced knowledge of stem cell biology and neurobiology. The successful candidate will have excellent tissue culture background and experience in neuroscience. The LSRP-3 would be expected to conduct experiments under the supervision of the PI, but also design and lead independent projects. Moreover, the LSRP-3 will participate in conducting the overall operations of the Stanford Brain Organogenesis Program, which will include assisting with budgeting and financial overviews, but also training and supervising students in experimental techniques as part of university and international collaborations and courses. Because the LSRP-3 will frequently interact with a team of graduate and postdoctoral researchers, he or she must have the ability to communicate clearly scientific concepts.

Duties include:

• Design research approaches for a major portion of research project(s), including background research, experimental design and execution, problem-solving, and writing up for publication.
• Develop new protocols; test and evaluate a variety of approaches.
• Perform complex (lab and/or field) experiments and maintain detailed records of experiments and outcomes; analyze and interpret research data resulting from original procedures and methods.
• Assist with new research proposals and applications for funding and grants.
• Lead or participate in multidisciplinary teams across different faculties or schools.
• Prepare periodic progress reports or written reports on all phases of the research project.
• Contribute substantively to the preparation of papers for publication, especially in the results section. May be a co-author on publications. Present ongoing work and findings to colleagues at academic conferences.
• Perform ongoing literature review to remain current with new procedures and related research; propose new research directions based on new advances discussed in literature.
• Oversee supply and equipment budget under minimal supervision of principal investigator or business manager.
• Work with health and safety department to ensure lab complies with regulations and all required trainings.
• Formally supervise and train new staff or students as needed, including hiring, performance management, and related duties, in addition to instruction on techniques and consultation on project work.

* - Other duties may also be assigned

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD or MSc in a Biological Sciences or related field with advance experience in a laboratory setting
• Experience with neuroscience, stem cell biology, molecular and cell biology, microscopy and flow cytometry
• Thorough training and knowledge in the area of cell culture and aseptic techniques
• Project management skills
• Teaching experience
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE (REQUIRED):

A Doctoral Degree (recommended) or Master of Science with substantial coursework in science is required or more advanced degree. A minimum of 5 years of experience in a research lab. The ability to communicate in a very proficient way scientific concepts both verbally and in writing.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (REQUIRED):

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• Expert level knowledge and skills in stem cell biology, neuroscience, disease modeling.
• General computer skills, experience with databases and scientific applications, and ability to quickly learn and master computer programs.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance is essential.
• Excellent organizational skills and demonstrated ability to complete detailed work accurately.
• Developing project management skills.

CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES:

None

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS*:

• Frequently stand, walk, twist, bend, stoop, squat, grasp lightly, use fine manipulation, grasp forcefully, perform desk-based computer tasks, use telephone, write by hand, lift, carry, push and pull objects weighing over 40 pounds.
• Occasionally sit, kneel, crawl, reach and work above shoulders, sort and file paperwork or parts.
• Rarely climb, scrub, sweep, mop, chop and mix or operate hand and foot controls.
• Must have correctible vision to perform duties of the job.
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, stand, reach above shoulder level, and move on hard surfaces for up to eight hours.
• Ability to lift heavy objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a dusty, dirty, and odorous environment.
• Position may require repetitive motion.

* - Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of his or her job.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• May require working in close proximity to blood borne pathogens.
• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require the employee to work with or be in areas where hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases are present.
• Employee must perform tasks that require the use of personal protective equipment, such as safety glasses and shoes, protective clothing and gloves, and possibly a respirator.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

WORK STANDARDS:

• Interpersonal Skills: Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety: Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for safety; communicates safety concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University's Administrative Guide, http://adminguide.stanford.edu.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Full-time
• Job Code: 4953
• Employee Status: Regular
• Grade: H
• Requisition ID: 86464