Staff Scientist Position – National Institutes of Health (NIH)
The Section on Sensory Cell Development and Function at the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is seeking a Staff Scientist. We are located in the multidisciplinary Neuroscience Research Center (Building 35A) in Bethesda, Maryland just outside of Washington D.C. Our group utilizes the zebrafish system to study hair cells, the specialized mechanoreceptors that are required to reliably transmit auditory and vestibular information to the brain. Specifically, we use this in vivo model to investigate the function and assembly of the hair cell system. Our work uses this relevant model by combining powerful genetics, functional and time-lapse imaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral analyses to comprehensively dissect the molecular and functional requirements underlying the assembly and function of hair cell systems in vivo.
The main questions we are currently asking include: 1) how do collections of sensory cells, synapses, and neurons coordinate to encode sensory information; 2) how does sensory activity impact circuit assembly, function and health; and 3) what molecules are required to set up sensory function and synapse specificity?
A successful candidate for this position is expected to be an expert scientist with strong critical thinking and organizational skills. We seek a Staff Scientist with expertise in zebrafish genetics and in vivo imaging, electrophysiology, cutting-edge microscopy techniques, and computer programming (Matlab, python) for advanced image processing. The newly appointed Staff Scientist is expected to work collaboratively and interactively and to contribute to the research, including authorship and co-authorship on publications.
Skills and Qualifications:
The successful candidate is expected to:
· Have a PhD and/or MD or equivalent degree
· Have relevant postdoctoral experience in the biological sciences
· Have a compelling publication record that demonstrates productivity
· Have strong organizational skills sufficient to oversee maintenance and training on
· several microscopes
· Assist in the design of research projects and carry out experiments
· Collaborate effectively
· Contribute to the training and mentoring of new lab members
· Possess effective oral and written English communication skills
· Publish findings in a timely manner
The NIDCD is committed to providing an outstanding scientific and training environment in which every lab member gives and receives high-quality feedback, shares expertise with others, and contributes to a highly productive and exciting scientific environment.
Successful candidates will be highly motivated, have a strong work ethic and the ability to work independently. Full federal benefits including salary, leave, health and life insurance, long-term care insurance, retirement, and savings plan (401(k) equivalent) will be provided. Salary is commensurate with research experience and accomplishments.
How to Apply
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. Applicants should submit via email their curriculum vitae with bibliography and contact information for three references to:
Katie Kindt, PhD
Investigator, Section on Sensory Cell Development and Function
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders
National Institutes of Health
NIH is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. At NIDCD, we have a clear vision: to be the place where a diverse mix of talented people do their best work.