Staff Scientist I, Translational Neuroscience
Job Description
Job DescriptionDescription:
A little about us:
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting-edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention.
We are a group of dedicated, multidisciplinary and optimistic researchers, working at the cutting edge of science, utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mystery of the brain and transform the way we approach the development of new treatments, and ultimately cures. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD.
Job Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and collaborative Staff Scientist I to join the Translational Neuroscience Division. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of human brain neuroanatomy and molecular neuroscience, supporting large-scale spatial and single cell transcriptomic studies aimed at understanding neurodevelopmental, neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders.
The Staff Scientist will work closely with current senior scientists in the Division to acquire cross-disciplinary training in both human tissue dissection and neuroanatomical mapping as well as molecular and spatial transcriptomics. The position is designed to provide both hands-on technical expertise and project coordination support across several ongoing, funded projects.
This is an excellent role for a scientist seeking to deepen technical and analytical skills in human neuroscience within a dynamic, team-oriented research environment. The Staff Scientist will also acquire critical skills and be tasked with increasing responsibility in management of large-scale projects and supervision/training of junior staff.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with dissection and preparation of postmortem human brain tissue for molecular profiling studies.
- Perform cryosectioning, histology, and neuroanatomical validation for various projects.
- Support molecular workflows including RNA isolation, 10x Genomics Visium and Xenium assays, and cDNA library preparation.
- Coordinate tissue and reagent inventories, ensuring accurate record-keeping and efficient lab operations.
- Assist in data organization, figure generation, and documentation for manuscripts and grant submissions.
- Contribute to training and supervision of graduate students, research assistants and technicians.
- Serve as a cross-trained team member capable of supporting neuroanatomical or molecular projects as needed.
- Ensure adherence to safety, biospecimen handling, and general laboratory compliance procedures.
- Other duties as assigned
Requirements:
Minimum Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Molecular Biology, or related field and a minimum of 5 years related experience.
- PhD is strongly desired
Special Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Strong background in molecular neurobiology, histology, or related laboratory techniques.
- Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
- Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to reproducible science.
- Experience with spatial transcriptomics (e.g., Visium, Xenium) or single cell sequencing preferred.
- Experience working with human brain tissue would be advantageous.
Physical Requirements:
· Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time;
· Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers;
· Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds;
· Communication skills using the spoken and written word;
· Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication;
· All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment.
** If accommodations are needed due to pregnancy or a disability, please contact jobs@libd.org.
Compensation
Candidates are hired within the starting salary range for the position which is the lower portion of the overall range. The starting salary range for this position is $70k - $80k with opportunities for employee growth over time. Placement in the starting range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process.
Benefits
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package to help us attract and retain the best talent. Please visit https://www.libd.org/careers/benefits/ for more information.
EEOC Statement: At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, color, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non-merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified.
LIEBER INSTITUTE FOR BRAIN DEVELOPMENT'S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is a transparent and collaborative community working to produce unique and imaginative patient-oriented solutions to developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. It is committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries into a research team that draws upon the best of its staff. The Institute is historic—it is defining a unique model for ground-breaking science. It values translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness. The Institute provides an environment that fosters independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community. Diverse minds, ideas, and talent are needed to support LIBD's mission. Fresh, innovative ideas and perspectives are a competitive necessity in an increasingly diverse and global marketplace. The success of the Institute's mission depends upon leveraging a diversity of talent.
The Institute's commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance with laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunity, prohibit discrimination and harassment, and support minority and woman owned businesses. To realize the advantages of its diversity, it is necessary to work effectively together even when differences challenge us to consider ideas and methods that seem impractical or make us feel uncomfortable.
The Lieber Institute for Brain Development demonstrates its commitment to diversity by:
-Including others: Talent is not limited to those with a narrow set of industry and academic credentials. The Institute is committed to building diverse teams, inviting others to share their perspectives, seeking out a diversity of input when making decisions, questioning traditional thinking, and promoting continuous learning and development.
-Respecting one another: The Institute is committed to listening carefully to others, seeking consensus, engaging in active and constructive debate, thoughtfully challenging one another, and providing constructive feedback.
-Building trust: The Institute is committed to sharing information and resources, depending on one another to get things done, keeping promises, and conveying high integrity in all actions.