Staff Scientist

The laboratory of Dr. Busik in the Department of Biochemistry and Physiology is looking for a Staff Scientist in the area of retinal vascular biology. The main area of research in Busik lab is on the role of dyslipidemia in the development of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR). We use cell culture and animal models of DR, lipidomics, molecular biology, biochemistry, spectroscopy, respirometry, immunohistochemistry, electron microscopy and retinal function techniques. The duties will involve independent design and performance of the experiments, data analysis and preparation of the manuscripts on the role of fatty acids, cholesterol and ceramide in the development of DR. As DR is mainly vascular disease, the knowledge of retinal vascular biology and retinal function are required. The candidate should have PhD or MD and demonstrated ability for independent studies.

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. 

Working Conditions:

• 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. 

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