Staff Scientist (Monosov Lab)

Position summary

This position assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis, and documentation of experiment results.

By working with animals, humans, and computational models, our team aims to uncover the neuronal-basis of adaptive and maladaptive decision-making, learning, and cognition, and to reverse engineer the complex internal states that give rise to psychiatric disorders.

We are especially interested in the neurobiology of (i) risky decision-making under uncertainty, (ii) exploration and novelty-seeking, (iii) appetitive and aversive learning, and (iv) curiosity. We wish to discover how such sophisticated behaviors are controlled in health and disease.

In terms of techniques, the laboratory combines cutting-edge large-scale neurophysiology, circuit-mapping, and causal circuit-disruption approaches in non-human primates and mice. We also regularly perform human behavioral experiments, and utilize computational methods, aiming to understand the algorithms agents employ to adaptively (or maladaptively) control cognitive behaviors.

Our laboratory is a part of several cross-institution collaborative Centers funded by the NIH and DOD. These projects include clinicians, engineers, and computational neuroscientists. To participate in these teams, we also encourage a collaborative spirit and a passion for learning new perspectives and viewpoints.

Modern neuroscience spans systems, computational, and molecular approaches. Therefore, to improve our chances of making important discoveries candidates with a wide range of skill sets will be considered.

Primary duties & responsibilities

• Following instructions and discussions with the principal investigator, designs research protocols, including developing procedures for the collection, verification, and management of data.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Performs complex statistical analysis of data collected and writes interpretative reports.  Verifies the correctness of the data submitted and makes recommendations based on these analyses.
• Documents research topics and prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment or test subjects.  Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
• 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, economics, or psychology.
• Passion, creativity, and kindness are key qualities in applicants.
• Experience with behavioral task design and detailed behavioral analyses, programming, neurophysiology, optogenetics, or computational psychiatry/biology.

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.

Salary range

$44,700.00 – $81,200.00 / 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.

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 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to an individual’s sex, race, color, religion, age, disability status, protected veteran status, national or ethnic origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation. Women, minorities, protected veterans and the disabled are strongly encouraged to apply.

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.