Research Scientist II

Position Description:

Every day, in ways both big and small, the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is impacting lives for the better. MCW … changemaking for a healthier Wisconsin. In the role of a Research Scientist II  you will beworking in Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy.  

Purpose

A Research Scientist position is available in the Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy in the lab of Dr. Brian Lin to study the therapeutic efficacy and underlying mechanisms of cation channel blockers to treat heart disease, with a focus on dystrophic cardiomyopathy in Duchenne muscular dystrophy. We use a variety of mouse models in vivo and human stem cell models in vitro to study treatments for DMD. We apply biophysical measurements of individual cardiac muscle cell contraction and ion transients to determine underlying mechanisms of disease and identify new therapies.

We welcome motivated, and organized candidates who can work independently in a basic research laboratory setting. Ideal candidates will have a research background in any combination of the following: cardiac physiology, animal modeling, stem cell engineering, molecular biology techniques (e.g. qPCR and Western blotting), transcriptomics/proteomics or single cardiomyocyte biophysics. Our lab ethos is that anyone can learn, and we will provide appropriate training to further develop the skillsets of trainees.

Primary Functions

• · Plan and perform common and advanced molecular biology techniques: qPCR, cloning, subcloning, chromatin immunoprecipitation, luciferase assay, RNAi, development of knockout cell lines and mouse models, FACS
• · Plan and perform cell biology techniques, including protein purification techniques (e.g. HPLC), bacterial and mammalian cell expression, Western blotting, co-immunoprecipitation, and multiplexed ELISA techniques.
• · Plan and perform cell biology techniques, including iPSC culture and differentiation into various more mature phenotypes (specifically cardiomyocytes), plasmid transfection and viral infection into cells, isolation of adult cardiomyocytes, and immunohistochemistry.
• · Design, oversee, and execute preclinical trials of new therapies in cell and animal models of disease, including animal husbandry, in vivo luminescence imaging, and behavioral experiments. Animal disease models include mouse models (Duchenne muscular dystrophy, heart disease) and hamsters (obesity and COVID-19), the latter of which will require BSL3 experience.
• · Plan and perform statistical analyses of next generation sequencing techniques, including RNA-Seq, CHIP-Seq, ATAC-Seq, and Next Gen Sequencing Analysis
• · Prepare scientific reports, outcome findings and scientific manuscripts. Assist in outcome interpretation and composition of the results sections of manuscripts and reports.
• · Participate in meetings with principal investigator and research staff and evaluate/interpret the validity of data, develop methodologies, evaluate lab procedures.
• · Train students, residents and post-doctoral fellows in specific research protocols; develop training materials.
• · Develop, implement and maintain a computerized record system for reporting results.

Knowledge – Skills – Abilities

Applicants should have extensive experience with common lab techniques such as qPCR, Western blotting, and cell culture. Experience with animal handling, transcriptomics, proteomics, and/or epigenetics are strongly urged to apply.

Applicants must be highly self-motivated and possess the ability to think and work independently. Strong scientific communication skills, open to learning new science, and scientific integrity are required.

Preferred Schedule:
Full Time

Position Requirements:

Minimum Required Education:               PhD or Master’s with experience

Minimum Required Experience:             5 years

Field:                                                Transcriptomics or Epigenetics experience

Why MCW?

• Outstanding Healthcare Coverage, including but not limited to Health, Vision, and Dental. Along with Flexible Spending options
• 403B Retirement Package
• Competitive Vacation and Paid Holidays offered
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Parental Leave
• Pet Insurance
• On campus Fitness Facility, offering onsite classes.
• Additional discounted rates on items such as: Select cell phone plans, local fitness facilities, Milwaukee recreation and entertainment etc. 

For a full list of positions see: www.mcw.edu/careers  

For a brief overview of our benefits see: https://www.mcw.edu/departments/human-resources/benefits

Eastern Wisconsin is a vibrant, diverse metropolitan area.  MCW is intent on attracting, developing, and retaining a diverse workforce and faculty body that reflects the community we serve. We value diversity of backgrounds, experience, thought, and perspectives to advance excellence in science and medicine.  MCW is a welcoming campus community with a strong culture of collaboration, partnership, and engagement with our surrounding community. For more information, please visit our institutional website at https://www.mcw.edu/departments/office-of-diversity-and-inclusion . 

MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.

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