Job Posting: Staff Scientist 1 - (STB)

Summary

The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, NC is seeking a dynamic, highly motivated Staff Scientist to support immunotoxicology research in the Systems Toxicology Branch (STB), 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.

STB is a key contributor to DTT’s efforts to lead the science of toxicology and environmental public health by supporting applied research to generate data, improve test protocols, evaluate novel tools, and improve interpretation of test results related to toxicity of organ systems such as the immune, nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems. STB scientists develop research initiatives that evaluate specific issues, concepts and assumptions in the conduct and interpretation of toxicology studies.

Duties

NIEHS is seeking a highly motivated Title 42(g) Staff Scientist to provide immunotoxicology subject matter expertise and lead the planning and conduct of DTT studies relating to immune function, autoimmunity, and dermal and/or respiratory sensitization. Evaluations and summarization of immunotoxicity information on specific chemicals or test methods will be performed as required for DTT/NIEHS programs through acquisition, review, and evaluation of data and information from peer reviewed publications and/or DTT laboratory investigations. In addition, the staff scientist will be responsible for submitting project proposals that investigate the potential immune toxicity of chemicals of interest that may be conducted using new approach methodologies (NAMs) or laboratory animals and ensure coordination of standardized testing assays to screen for and assess immunotoxicity using DTT contract 2 laboratories in accordance with regulatory guidelines. Potential areas of interest include, but are not limited to, the use of alternative methods to assess developmental immunotoxicity, investigation of substances that alter pulmonary immune responses in vitro or in vivo (microplastics, vaping components) and differential (age-related, sex-based) susceptibility. The staff scientist will serve as a DTT liaison to other federal agencies and the international community of immunotoxicologists, and provide experience, perspective, and guidance in assay and testing program development.

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 Immunology, Toxicology, or a related field. 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 projects; broad knowledge of general toxicology and toxicological testing, particularly relating to immune function, dermal and respiratory sensitization as well as specific expertise in immunotoxicology studies conducted in cultured cells, laboratory animals, and human study subjects. Demonstrated experience in the conduct of in vivo and in vitro immunotoxicology research studies using chemicals or physical agents, statistical analysis of data, and interpretation of experimental toxicology findings; Recognition 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, publications); Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as excellent interpersonal and facilitation skills; Ability to innovate and work in a team-based, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary organization; and Ability to provide advice and consultation to both technical and non-technical personnel.

At the supervisor’s discretion, this position may offer work schedule flexibilities. These flexibilities may be requested in accordance with the HHS Workplace Flexibilities policy. https://www.hhs.gov/about/agencies/asa/ohr/hr-library/990-1/index.html

Appointee may be a U.S. citizen, Legal Permanent Resident of non-US citizen who is eligible for a valid work authorization. This position is subject to background investigation.

Benefits

Salary will be commensurate with experience. A full civil service package of benefits may be available. This position includes full Federal benefits, including participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System, a Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent), health, and life insurance, and paid sick and annual leave.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, with no discrimination for non-merit reasons such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization.

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

Applicants who have completed part or all of their education outside of the United States must provide an evaluation by an accredited organization to ensure its equivalence to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States. For more information on foreign education verification, visit the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) website at http://www.naces.org/. Verification must be received prior to the effective date of the appointment. NIH is the premier biomedical research center in the world. Its 27 institutes and centers employ more than 21,000 employees doing a vast array of jobs, all supporting efforts for a healthy nation. For information about the NIH mission, goals and institutes and centers, visit https://www.nih.gov/about-nih.

DO NOT INCLUDE YOUR BIRTH DATE, PHOTOGRAPH, OR SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER (SSN) ON APPLICATION MATERIALS. DHHS AND NIH ARE EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS

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#512 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 references from individuals in the scientific/academic community who are familiar with the candidate’s accomplishments, motivation, and skills.