Job Posting: Staff Scientist 1, Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB)

Summary

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, NC is seeking a dynamic, highly motivated Staff Scientist to support new approach methodologies (NAMs) for modeling the developing brain for the Mechanistic Toxicology Branch, (MTB) in the Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT). The mission of DTT is to improve public health through data and knowledge development that are translatable, predictive, and timely. DTT provides critical data for regulatory and non-regulatory stakeholder decision making to protect human health using epidemiological data, in vivo studies, alternative in vivo model systems, in vitro high-throughput screens and/or computational approaches. To achieve its mission, DTT scientists 1) collaborate with public stakeholders and global partners to identify and address public health issues, 2) generate and communicate trusted information to support decision making on environmental hazards, 3) lead the transformation of toxicology in the development and application of innovative tools and strategies, and 4) educate and train the next generation of translational toxicologists.

DTT’s scientific goals are achieved through a distinct, highly cooperative and integrated team science operational model whereby scientific staff across multiple disciplines and branches assemble into interdisciplinary project teams and utilize centrally managed shared resources, in contrast to the traditional NIH principal investigator-led research group model. The research is carried out through use of external research and development contracts together with onsite intramural research capability.
MTB is a key contributor to DTT’s efforts to lead the science of toxicology and environmental public health by providing research support for and conduct of mechanistic and investigative laboratory research to identify human health hazards from environmental and chemical exposures and to further mechanistic understanding of environmental toxicity contributing to human disease. The MTB laboratory work is project-driven and supports divisional interdisciplinary project teams to advance the program mission.

Duties

NIEHS is seeking a highly motivated Title 42(g) Staff Scientist 1 to serve as a Developmental Neuroscientist in MTB, DTT, at NIEHS. The staff scientist will initiate studies and participate on collaborative research teams developing NAMs using a suite of neuroanatomical, neurodevelopmental, and molecular testing strategies which could be used to help elucidate the mechanisms by which chemical agents affect the development and function of brain regions and systems. The DTT is specifically seeking expertise in organoid and other models of neural networks, and microfluidic technologies that model the development and function of regions, systems, and processes of relevance to human neurodevelopmental disorders such as mesolimbic pathways, the hypothalamus, sexual differentiation, or specific ages of neurodevelopment.

The responsibilities will include but not be limited to:

• Support the planning and execution of research experiments in the context of the overall research program. This includes conduct of in vivo DTT neurotoxicology studies and the toxicological properties of specific chemicals or groups of chemicals.
• Develop and validate NAMs such as Standardized Organoid Modeling (SOM) using specialized human and rodent cell cultures.
• Maintain research facilities and laboratory equipment for ongoing and projected research studies, including basic and advanced training in use of specialized equipment for molecular biology assays, complex in vitro models, and NAMs.
• Communicate research activities and results in branch meetings, reports, research presentations and manuscripts.
• Coordinate training and mentorship of fellows and trainees in proper safety procedures, protocols, operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and software.
• Evaluate and publish results and communicate research activities and results at national and international conferences.
• Provide on-site, program-responsive, support to DTT design teams for screening, prioritization, and mechanistic understanding of chemical effects and environmental factors related to human exposure and health.
• Conceptualize, develop, implement, and monitor varying aspects of project and program plans.
• Promote continuous skill and professional development of laboratory staff and trainees, identifying knowledge and skill gaps, providing constructive feedback and facilitative mentorship.

As a NIH Title 42(g) Staff Scientist 1, the employee is generally appointed to a time-limited, renewable position. Staff Scientists do not receive independent resources as a principal investigator, although they will often work independently and have sophisticated skills and knowledge essential to the work of the branch.

Who Can Apply

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Candidates must possess a Ph.D., M.D., Pharm D., or equivalent doctoral degree in [Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Endocrinology], or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

Preferred Candidates will have at least 5 years of related research experience upon earning their doctoral degree with research, leadership, and training necessary to develop strategies for the conduct and management of complex collaborative research projects. The candidate will have demonstrated experience in collaborative research exploring novel tools and approaches using a suite of neuroanatomical, neurobehavioral, and molecular testing strategies which will help elucidate the mechanisms by which chemical agents affect the development and function of specific areas of the brain. The candidate must be recognized as a scientifically active and respected expert (e.g., as evidenced by honors, awards, board certification, invited presentations and consultations, elected positions in professional societies, invited reviewer for journals, editorial board member, publications). The candidate must have strong oral and written communication skills, as well as excellent interpersonal and facilitation skills. The candidate must be able to innovate and work in a team-based, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary organization, in addition to providing advice and consultation to both technical and non-technical personnel.

Appointee may be a US citizen, Legal Permanent Resident of non-US citizen who is eligible for a valid work authorization.

This position is subject to background investigation.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. Government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Learn more about federal benefits.

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Equal Employment Opportunity

The United States Government does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) for federal employees & job applicants.

Standards of Conduct/Financial Disclosure

If selected, you will be required to complete a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, OGE Form 450 to determine if a conflict or an appearance of a conflict exists between your financial interest and your prospective position with the agency.

Foreign Education

This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts (or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed and grades). Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer. Learn more about Foreign Education.

Reasonable Accommodation

You can request a reasonable accommodation at any time during the application or hiring process or while on the job. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit materials as one combined PDF via email to [email protected]. All emails should include vacancy number NR#511 in the subject line. Applications will be received until position is filled.

A complete application package must include:
• Cover Letter
• Curriculum Vitae
• Bibliography
• Contact information (names, work/email addresses, phone) for 3 Referees from individuals in the scientific/academic community who are familiar with the candidate’s accomplishments, motivation, and skills.

Incomplete or paper applications will not be accepted or evaluated.

For further information about the position, please contact Dr. Darlene Dixon at [email protected].