Staff Scientist – Engineering

Position Summary
Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis, documentation of experiment results, writing manuscripts, assists in writing research proposals and reports, and trains other lab members. Experience with protein expression, conjugation chemistries, chemical analysis, and chemical biology preferred.
This position will involve expression of small proteins (e.g., cytokines, chemokines, etc.), design of chemical modification sites, and conjugation of pharmaceutical compounds. The individual will have the opportunity to design their own project and work as part of a multidisciplinary team of engineers and materials scientists with additional exposure to clinical or biological sensor applications.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities

• Following instructions and discussions with principal investigator, designs research protocols, including developing procedures for the collection, carrying out experiments, verification, and management of data.
• Develops expertise in protein expression systems and chemical conjugation approaches.
• Documents research topics and prepares and submits papers based on research work to publications and committees for publication or presentation to peers.
• Assists with grant preparation and reporting.
• Performs complex analysis of data collected and writes interpretative reports. Verifies the correctness of the data submitted and makes recommendations based on these analyses.
• 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.
• Trains other recruits to the lab.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

May work in laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment as needed. Ability to travel to on and off campus locations.

Preferred Qualifications

• MS or equivalent experience in related field.
• Prior experience working with additive manufacturing of soft materials.
• Analytical, reasoning and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to analyze and interpret statistical data and to communicate data in a clear, concise manner.
• Computer literacy including the ability to use a variety of software packages to analyze data.

Required Qualifications

PhD or master’s degree with 4 years of experience in research lab operations; or equivalent combination of education and experience equaling 9 years.

Grade
R10

Salary Range
$47,000.00 – $85,200.00 / 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.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  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

Personal

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.

• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.

• Want to Live Near Your Work and/or improve your commute? Take advantage of our free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees. We also offer a forgivable home loan of up to $12,500 for closing costs and a down payment for homes in eligible neighborhoods.

• WashU provides eligible employees with a defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, which combines employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.

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.

For policies, detailed benefits, and eligibility, please visit: https://hr.wustl.edu/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.