Job Abstract

Biochemistry lab at The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center looking for a staff scientist. The group studies the relationship between brain metabolism and function, with particular emphasis on neuronal bioenergetics in the context of aging and cognitive decline. There will be opportunities to participate in several collaborative efforts aimed at understanding the metabolism of different cell types during aging or diseased states.

The ideal candidate will be a well-organized and independent scientist with experience in neuroscience, physiology/pharmacology, and biochemistry. They will be proficient with molecular biology techniques (e.g. bacterial transformations, PCR, viral expression vectors, and plasmid subcloning), and also with multiphoton or confocal/fluorescence microscopy, and/or electrophysiology. Hands-on experience related to laboratory animal work is required, including performing with cranial surgery for viral injections, and/or in vivo imaging or electrophysiology. The ideal candidate will have have good record keeping and general laboratory practices including sterile technique. Tissue culture experience with mammalian cell lines and primary cultures is also required. The selected candidate is expected to conduct independent research under the supervision of the lab PI, to assist with the training of junior lab members, and to maintain respectful and productive interactions with internal and external collaborators.

Duties:

• Non-tenured, specified term scientific position.
• Responsible for the management of a research laboratory.
• Conducts research, provides support to various research activities, and trains laboratory staff.
• Ensures all employees follow laboratory safety regulations and laboratory policies and procedures.
• Develops and implements laboratory operational policies and procedures.
• Develops and implements strategic goals for the lab and presents to Principal Investigator.
• Develops and oversees new projects to include but not limited to program analysis and possible sources of potential sponsored funding.
• Independently conducts research projects, constructs tests or assist with construction of tests, and collaborates with other researchers.
• Compiles data and prepares research manuscripts for publication in peer reviewed journals.
• Conducts literature searches in order to stay current with ongoing research in a specific field or project.
• Collects data and conducts analyses by interpreting, drawing conclusions and documenting the data.
• Presents research results to other researchers, committees, faculty, and at scientific meetings.
• Supervises laboratory personnel.
• Responsible for hiring, terminating, training, conducting performance evaluations, disciplining, delegating, and monitoring employee's work.
• May have teaching responsibilities.
• May apply for grants or contracts.
• Performs related duties as needed to successfully fulfill the functions of the position

Required Education: Ph.D. or M.D. AND:

• 36 months Postdoctoral Research Fellow experience.

Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of their scientific field.
• Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify alternative solutions or conclusions.
• Ability to compile and analyze data.
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with individuals, agencies, and other entities to encourage cooperative strategies or develop information and interpret findings.
• Excellent verbal and written skills in order to prepare technical and research papers, grant applications, and publish and communicate findings to peers and at conferences.
• Advanced working knowledge of computers to store, process and analyze data.
• Must be detail oriented.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and meet deadlines.

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Physical: Standing for prolonged periods. Manual dexterity. Reaching, bending, stooping, and handling laboratory equipment.
• Environmental: Laboratory Environment. Exposure to chemicals, biohazardous materials, carcinogens, blood borne pathogens, and other biohazards.

Departmental Preferences:

• Mouse surgery (stereotactic injection of viral vectors)
• Molecular biology procedures / subcloning
• Microscopy/electrophysiology
• Lab management (ordering, organization)
• Tissue culture (cell line maintenance and transfection)

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.