Staff Scientist

Dr. Hayes laboratory (https://hayes-lab.github.io ) in the Department of Cell Biology at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is seeking an enthusiastic and responsible Staff Scientist to support research projects studying the neuro-immune mechanisms in brain health and disease across the lifespan. Research in the Hayes Lab focuses on how developmental immune stressors lead to changes in brain development and risk for neurodevelopmental disorders. We’re a new group committed to fostering inclusivity in STEM. Come join our growing group as we tackle exciting questions in neuroscience!

Duties:

• Non-tenured, specified term scientific position. Responsible for the management of a research laboratory.
• Conducts research, provides support to various research activities, and trains laboratory staff.
• Ensures all employees follow laboratory safety regulations and laboratory policies and procedures.
• Develops and implements laboratory operational policies and procedures.
• Develops and implements strategic goals for the lab and presents to Principal Investigator.
• Develops and oversees new projects to include but not limited to program analysis and possible sources of potential sponsored funding.
• Independently conducts research projects, constructs tests or assist with construction of tests, and collaborates with other researchers.
• Compiles data and prepares research manuscripts for publication in peer reviewed journals.
• Conducts literature searches in order to stay current with ongoing research in a specific field or project.
• Collects data and conducts analyses by interpreting, drawing conclusions and documenting the data.
• Presents research results to other researchers, committees, faculty, and at scientific meetings.
• Supervises laboratory personnel.
• Responsible for hiring, terminating, training, conducting performance evaluations, disciplining, delegating, and monitoring employee’s work.
• May have teaching responsibilities.
• May apply for grants or contracts.
• Performs related duties as needed to successfully fulfill the functions of the position

Required Education: Ph.D. or M.D.AND:

• 36 months Postdoctoral Research Fellow experience.

Skills:

• Advanced knowledge of their scientific field.
• Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify alternative solutions or conclusions.
• Ability to compile and analyze data.
• Ability to establish and maintain working relationships with individuals, agencies, and other entities to encourage cooperative strategies or develop information and interpret findings
• Excellent verbal and written skills in order to prepare technical and research papers, grant applications, and publish and communicate findings to peers and at conferences.
• Advanced working knowledge of computers to store, process and analyze data.
• Must be detail oriented.
• Ability to handle stressful situations and meet deadlines.

Working Conditions:

• Physical: Standing for prolonged periods. Manual dexterity. Reaching, bending, stooping, and handling laboratory equipment.
• Environmental: Laboratory Environment. Exposure to chemicals, biohazardous materials, carcinogens, blood borne pathogens, and other biohazards.

Departmental Preferences:

• The primary responsibilities of the position include working independently and overseeing junior lab members. Duties include mouse colony maintenance, performing experiments, data collection, data analysis, data management, and presentation both written and orally. The candidate is expected to have expertise in basic laboratory techniques, contribute to team science, and have an intrinsic curiosity for science and discovery. The candidate will be expected to work on multiple research projects, train junior members, contribute to intellectual discussions in the lab, write grant applications, publish research articles in peer-reviewed journals, and present as scientific conferences. The position is perfect for individuals looking to build a career at the bench while gaining expertise in project management, and leadership.

Diversity Statement: The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse, equitable, and inclusive university community by recognizing each person’s unique contributions, background, and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all, recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission. 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.