Staff Scientist – Anesthesiology Full-time

Research Scientist

The Creed lab in the Department of Anesthesiology seeks a research scientist with expertise in in vivo electrophysiology to join our team. Chronic pain afflicts over 20% of the population, and is characterized by affective symptoms (anhedonia, apathy and depressed mood) that negatively impact pain management. Research in our lab seeks to understand the basis for these affective symptoms. We focus on synaptic plasticity within genetically-defined neural circuits in the basal ganglia and thalamocortical networks. We combine patch clamp and in vivo electrophysiology, RNA-sequencing, biophysical modeling of neurons and computational models of behavior to understand how chronic pain and opioid analgesics alters plasticity in neural circuits, and how changes in these neural circuits drive negative affect and changes in cognition. We seek to translate (and back translate!) results of our findings. Our ultimate goal is to use these insights to develop novel neuromodulation therapies to treat affective and cognitive symptoms of chronic pain disorders.

The successful candidate will apply electrophysiological approaches to multiple collaborative projects in the lab and will have opportunities to independently lead projects. Designs research protocols. Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis and documentation of experiment results. 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.

Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Required Qualifications:

• Education: Master's degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
• Certifications/Professional Licenses: No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.
• Work Experience: Laboratory Operations (3 Years)
• Skills: Not Applicable
• Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job:

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Education: Ph.D. – Doctor of Philosophy
• Certifications/Professional Licenses: No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Work Experience: No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Skills: Analytical Problem Solving, Communication, Computer Literacy, Data Analysis, Data Interpretations

Grade R10 Salary Range $48,000.00 – $86,900.00 / 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.

Questions:

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ.

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. All qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position satisfactorily and, if requested, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job, absent undue hardship.

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:

Personal Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time. Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance. Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.

Wellness:

Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more!

Family:

We offer 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child. Family care resources are also available for your continued childcare needs. Need adult care? We've got you covered. WashU covers the cost of tuition for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years with us.

EEO 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.