Staff Scientist I - Molecular Neuroanatomy

A little about us:

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.

We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated Staff Scientist with significant experience in molecular neurobiology to join our large, interdisciplinary research team at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development. The successful applicant will work in collaboration with a team of wet bench and computational scientists to create cell type/circuit-specific reference profiles and molecular atlases in brain regions important for reward processing with the goal of better understanding addiction and neuropsychiatric disorders. This position is open to bench laboratory scientists seeking a position within a translational research setting with a focus on next generation sequencing projects using 10x Genomics single cell gene expression and Visium spatial transcriptomics technologies in mouse and postmortem human brain tissue.

Overview of Duties:

Responsibilities will include experimental design, executing protocols, analyzing data, oversight of laboratory staff, as well as communicating scientific findings through presentations and publications.

Specific Duties include:

• Single nucleus RNA-sequencing
• 10x Genomics Visium spatial transcriptomics
• Flow sorting of postmortem human brain nuclei and genetically tagged mouse neurons
• Immunohistochemistry, single-molecule FISH, histological staining, confocal microscopy
• Supervision and training of junior staff in wet lab
• Logistical organization and management of data acquisition and analysis
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Requirements

· Master's degree in Neuroscience or a closely related field is required. PhD preferred.

· A minimum of 5 years bench experience inmolecular/cellular biology, flow cytometry, and/or RNA-sequencing library construction preferred.

· Expertise in human neuroanatomy or mouse circuitry is also beneficial for the cross-species approaches under investigation.

Familiarity with any of the following topics or techniques is a plus:

· Computational experience or familiarity with computing in R, MATLAB, or Python

· Illumina sequencing

· FACS sorting

· Neuroanatomy

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

· Excellent organizational and communication skills

· Initiative to learn new methods and perform work efficiently and carefully are essential.

Physical Requirements:

- Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;

- Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers;

- Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds;

- Communication skills using the spoken and written word;

- Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication;

- All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment.

** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org

Benefits:

We offer a comprehensive benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision insurance, 403B with employer matching, paid time off, wellness programs, short term and long term disability and much more. More information can be found here: https://www.libd.org/careers/benefits/

Vaccination Requirements: As of September 18, 2023, LIBD has simplified its COVID vaccination policy. All incoming students and employees must have received at least one dose of any FDA- or WHO- authorized vaccine, which aligns with current FDA guidelines.

EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified.

LIEBER INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN DEVELOPMENT'S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is a transparent and collaborative community working to produce unique and imaginative patient-oriented solutions to developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. It is committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries into a research team that draws upon the best of its staff. The Institute is historic—it is defining a unique model for ground-breaking science. It values translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness. The Institute provides an environment that fosters independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community. Diverse minds, ideas, and talent are needed to support LIBD's mission. Fresh, innovative ideas and perspectives are a competitive necessity in an increasingly diverse and global marketplace. The success of the Institute's mission depends upon leveraging a diversity of talent.

The Institute's commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance with laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunity, prohibit discrimination and harassment, and support minority and woman owned businesses. To realize the advantages of its diversity, it is necessary to work effectively together even when differences challenge us to consider ideas and methods that seem impractical or make us feel uncomfortable.

The Lieber Institute for Brain Development demonstrates it commitment to diversity by:

• Including others: Talent is not limited to those with a narrow set of industry and academic credentials. The Institute is committed to building diverse teams, inviting others to share their perspectives, seeking out a diversity of input when making decisions, questioning traditional thinking, and promoting continuous learning and development.
• Respecting one another: The Institute is committed to listening carefully to others, seeking consensus, engaging in active and constructive debate, thoughtfully challenging one another, and providing constructive feedback.
• Building trust: The Institute is committed to sharing information and resources, depending on one another to get things done, keeping promises, and conveying high integrity in all actions