Staff Scientist (Electrophysiology)

Position summary

A Staff Scientist position is available immediately in Dr. Tom Franken’s laboratory in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Our laboratory is interested in the micro-organization and function of the cortical circuits that parse visual scenes into meaningful collections of objects and background. The Staff Scientist will assist in these research projects by performing electrophysiological recordings using high-density multielectrodes (e.g., Neuropixels) in non-human primates and analyzing the data.

The PI is committed to mentoring and to nurturing a creative, thoughtful and collaborative lab culture. The laboratory is in an academic setting in the Department of Neuroscience at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, a large and collaborative scientific community. WashU Neuroscience is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 places worldwide for neuroscience research. The St. Louis area combines the attractions of a major city with affordable lifestyle opportunities.

Job description

For more information on the lab, please visit sites.wustl.edu/frankenlab/.

Primary duties and responsibilities

• Following instructions and discussions with the principal investigator, designs research protocols, including developing procedures for the collection, verification and management of electrophysiological data.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects. Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
• Performs complex statistical analysis of electrophysiological data and writes interpretative reports. Verifies the correctness of the data submitted and makes recommendations based on these analyses.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
• Conducts literature searches related to research project.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Preferred qualifications

• Degree in neuroscience, biology, engineering, computer science, or psychology.
• Experience with electrophysiological recordings and analysis of the data.
• Experience with behavioral task design and detailed behavioral analyses.
• Experience with programming using scripting languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• Ability to analyze and interpret quantitative data and to communicate data in a clear, concise manner. 

Required qualifications

Master’s degree with four years of experience in research lab operations or an equivalent combination of education and experience equaling nine years.

Grade

R10

Salary range

$46,100.00 – $83,600.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one’s qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-employment screening

All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA statement

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity statement

Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.

Job ID JR70869