Research Senior Associate- Neurology

The Ohio State University

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Neurology seeks a Research Senior Associate to design, execute, and manage research projects investigating epigenomic and transcriptomic mechanisms that contribute to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases in a foundational biological/health science laboratory. Working closely with the principal investigator (PI), the position develops and implements study goals and objectives, conceptualizes and conducts moderately complex laboratory experiments, and applies advanced molecular, cellular, or other specialized techniques. The role plans, coordinates, and oversees data collection, processing, and analysis; interprets research findings; and develops or refines methodologies, experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical approaches. It establishes research controls, criteria, and standards, performs critical literature reviews, and contributes to manuscripts, reports, and presentations for national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. The position assists the PI with grant proposals for new or renewal extramural funding, identifies potential funding sources, and participates in budget development and expense monitoring. It ensures laboratory safety and regulatory compliance, oversees the proper disposal and maintenance of regulated materials, and manages daily laboratory operations. The Research Senior Associate trains and supervises research staff and students, coordinates procurement of supplies and equipment, provides technical oversight, and manages service contracts and repairs. Strong project management, technical expertise, and leadership skills are needed to advance the department’s research mission.

Requirements

Advanced degree or equivalent experience.
Strong theoretical knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, molecular biology, and biochemistry.
Hands-on expertise in biochemical and molecular techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation and analysis, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and tissue culture.
Experience with mouse colony management, breeding, surgery, and behavioral testing.
Ability to design experiments, adapt methods, integrate data from multiple sources, draw sound conclusions, and critically read scientific literature.
Strong project management, technical expertise, and leadership skills.
Strong organizational skills, including laboratory management, record-keeping, supply ordering, and logistics.
Proficiency with software applications for producing reports, graphs, and spreadsheets, and for data tracking and analysis.
Successful completion of a background check; candidates may be asked to complete a pre-employment physical, including a drug screen.

Nice To Haves

Laboratory research experience on molecular alterations in neurodegeneration, including transcriptional and cell biology analysis, epigenomics, and circadian biology.
Experience with advanced omics methods, including nuclear isolation and library preparation for single-cell and spatial omics.
Experience developing hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing manuscripts.
A record of contributing innovative ideas and techniques to complex, multidisciplinary, milestone-driven projects in a collaborative setting.

Responsibilities

Design, execute, and manage research projects on epigenomic and transcriptomic mechanisms contributing to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
Collaborate with the principal investigator to develop and implement study goals and objectives.
Conceptualize and conduct moderately complex laboratory experiments using advanced molecular, cellular, or specialized techniques.
Plan, coordinate, and oversee data collection, processing, and analysis; interpret findings.
Develop or refine methodologies, experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical approaches; establish research controls, criteria, and standards.
Conduct critical literature reviews and contribute to manuscripts, reports, and presentations for conferences, workshops, and seminars.
Assist the PI with grant proposals, identify potential funding sources, and participate in budget development and expense monitoring.
Ensure laboratory safety and regulatory compliance, including OSHA and applicable local, state, and federal requirements.
Oversee proper disposal and maintenance of regulated materials and manage daily laboratory operations.
Train and supervise research staff and students; provide technical oversight.
Coordinate procurement of supplies and equipment and manage service contracts and repairs.