Staff Scientist II

Who is Saint Louis University? Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

JOB SUMMARY

Under general direction, the Staff Scientist II serves as a senior scientific leader responsible for the design, execution, and oversight of complex in vivo and in vitro neuroscience research. This role supports multiple funded and pending research projects, contributes to the development of new experimental models, and plays a critical role in generating data for grant applications and publications.

The position is essential for maintaining laboratory operations, ensuring scientific rigor, and providing advanced training and mentorship to trainees at all levels, including undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior investigators. The Staff Scientist II integrates research activities with the educational mission of the University by fostering a high-quality, hands-on training environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Responsibilities are listed in order of priority:

1. Advanced In Vivo Research & Model Development
Conduct and oversee complex in vivo rodent studies in neuroscience, including maintenance of genetically engineered mouse colonies, behavioral testing, tissue dissection, and implementation of disease models. Perform procedures ranging from compound dosing and injections to advanced surgical interventions, including anesthesia and euthanasia support.

2. Experimental Design & Independent Research Leadership
Independently design, develop, and implement innovative experimental approaches and new disease models. Lead components of research programs, contributing to study design, troubleshooting, and optimization of methodologies to support high-impact publications and grant applications.

3. Training, Mentorship & Workforce Development
Provide comprehensive training and supervision to undergraduate students, graduate trainees, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. Ensure proper experimental techniques, data integrity, and adherence to laboratory protocols. Mentor trainees in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, directly supporting the integration of research and education.

4. Grant Support & Data Generation
Contribute to the generation of preliminary and ongoing data required for grant submissions, renewals, and progress reports. Support multiple concurrent projects to ensure timely completion of research milestones.

5. Industry Collaboration & Research Partnerships
Serve as a liaison with pharmaceutical and industry partners to establish and maintain research collaborations and contracts, enhancing translational impact and external funding opportunities.

6. Molecular & Biochemical Research Support
Perform and oversee advanced laboratory techniques including tissue processing, biochemical analyses, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and related methodologies. Ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and proper documentation of results.

7. Data Analysis, Management & Reporting
Compile, process, and analyze experimental data. Maintain detailed and accurate research records, manage datasets, and prepare findings for presentations, publications, and reports.

8. Laboratory Operations & Equipment Oversight
Ensure efficient laboratory operations, including management of workflows, coordination of experiments, and maintenance and operation of scientific equipment such as spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes.

9. Compliance & Safety
Ensure adherence to institutional, regulatory, and safety guidelines related to animal research, laboratory procedures, and data management.

10. Additional Duties
Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Extensive (>20 years) experience in rodent research in neuroscience and inflammation
• Extensive experience in biochemical and molecular biology techniques
• Extensive experience conducting PK/PD studies
• Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute complex experiments
• Proven track record of training and mentoring individuals across all levels, from students to junior faculty
• Strong knowledge of experimental design and pharmacology in a translational research setting
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Supervisory and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead in a collaborative environment
• Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving research priorities

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
Extensive hands-on laboratory experience and specialized knowledge in neuroscience research methodologies required.

Function

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847.