Job Summary
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) is seeking two dynamic, highly motivated Title 42(g) Staff Scientists to serve as primary research neurobiologists in the Mechanistic Toxicology Branch (MTB), within the Division of Translational Toxicology (DTT). DTT is a team-based scientific organization, and its mission is to improve public health through development of data and knowledge that are translatable, predictive, and timely. The successful candidates for these laboratory positions will support the strategic mission of the Division by developing, coordinating, and leading scientific and operational activities related to the characterization of hazards of substances.
Staff scientists in the DTT work in multidisciplinary teams and collaboratively with scientists in other federal agencies, institutes, industry, and academia. In addition to scientific research, staff scientists occupy a critical place servicing varying levels of intramural science, providing laboratory and facility management, technical support and innovation, and managerial, administrative, and other mission support activities. This includes communicating scientific research through written reports and oral presentations at internal, national, and international scientific workshops and meetings.
The current Staff Scientist positions will support research exploring the mechanisms by which endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), including phytoestrogens, flame retardants, and BPA (Bisphenol A), alter neuroendocrine pathways in the brain related to sex specific physiology and behavior using a variety of traditional and transgenic in vivo models, in vitro approaches, and a suite of neuroanatomical, neurobehavioral, and molecular testing strategies.
Responsibilities may include but are not limited to:
1. Support the planning and execution of research experiments in the context of the overall research program. This includes the design and performance of fundamental developmental neuroscience and neuroanatomical research procedures.
2. Collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret research data from rodent (e.g., rats, mice, and prairie voles) animal behavior testing, including social, emotional, anxiety, fear, partner preference and/or attachment.
3. Collect, evaluate, analyze, and interpret research data from rodent immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, confocal microscopy, image analysis and other standardized techniques.
4. Develop and troubleshoot established and new techniques related to DNA, RNA and protein detection and quantification in rodent and primate brain and placenta (e.g., iDISCO, GeoMX, RNAscope).
5. Develop and validate Novel Alternatives Methods (NAMs) using specialized human stem cell placental cultures.
6. Maintain research facilities and laboratory equipment for ongoing and projected research studies, including basic and advanced training in animal care and use procedures.
7. Ensure quality control in sample collection and storage, lab notebook and other data management tools, data storage and interpretation, publishing and data sharing including at conferences, and ensuring a clean and safe lab environment.
8. Communicate research activities and results in laboratory meetings, reports, research presentations and manuscripts.
9. Coordinate training and mentorship of more junior staff in the proper safety procedures, protocols, operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and software.
10. Provide on-site, program-responsive, support to DTT Program Management Teams for screening, prioritization, and mechanistic understanding of chemical effects and environmental factors related to human exposure and health.
11. Conceptualize, develop, implement, and monitor varying aspects of project and program plans.
12. Engage with senior management and in public forums, foster stakeholder engagement, delegate responsibilities to contractors, individuals, and teams and monitor progress to all facets of plan.
13. Promote continuous skill and professional development of employees, identifying knowledge and skill gaps, providing constructive feedback and facilitative mentorship.
14. Contribute to proactive technical and business operation practices, recommending and implementing cutting-edge and best practice for process improvement, e.g., electronic laboratory notebooks.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/
Required Qualifications
The ideal candidates for these positions will have:
1. Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree (e.g., MD, ScD, DVM, PharmD) with research, leadership, and training necessary to develop strategies for the conduct and management of complex projects.
2. Demonstrated experience in the conduct of neurobiological research studies using chemicals or physical agents, statistical analysis of data, and interpretation of experimental toxicology findings.
3. 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).
4. Strong oral and written communication skills, as well as excellent interpersonal and facilitation skills.
5. Ability to innovate and work in a team-based, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary organization.
6. Ability to provide advice and consultation to both technical and non-technical personnel.
7. Appointees may be a U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents or non-U.S. citizens who are eligible for a valid work authorization.
8. This position is subject to a background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications
It is preferred that the candidate reside within the local commuting area of Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. This position is not eligible for remote work. At the supervisor’s discretion, this position may offer work schedule flexibilities, including telework. 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.
Benefits
This is a federal full-time equivalent position, and a comprehensive benefits package is available. Salary will be commensurate with experience, qualifications, and accomplishments. A full civil service package of benefits may be available.
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.