Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

The Samineni lab is seeking applicants for a Staff Scientist to join our group in the Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine. We are a newly established research group interested in understanding mechanisms underlying how visceral organ function is regulated in the brain and how it influences emotional wellbeing. We utilize scRNA & ATAC-seq, molecular and neuroanatomical tools to obtain comprehensive understanding of how the brain interprets, adapts, and responds to signals from the peripheral organs during normal and pathological states and how it shapes our emotions. We are leveraging our single cell ATAC datasets to screen for cell type-specific enhancers to drive expression in cells of our interest to functionally assess their roles in pain and emotion.

Designs research protocols. Assists in developing and conducting research projects, including experiment design, data analysis and documentation of experiment results.

Job Description

For more information on the lab please visit https://saminenilab.wustl.edu.

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

• 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.
• Strong background in proficiency in scientific programming languages (e.g., Python, R, Perl, Java), in a UNIX/Linux and/or Windows environment and statistical analysis.
• Detail-oriented and excellent record-keeping skills.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, optimally including writing scientific manuscripts and presentations.
• Ability to work well independently or as a team member in utilizing developed methodologies.
• Next-generation sequencing, library preparation (ATAC-seq, scRNA-seq, snRNA-seq and spatial sequencing platforms) and analysis.
• Ability to independently perform molecular biology techniques, including PCR, RT-PCR, ddPCR, and cloning.
• Experience with sequence design (Oligo/primer/gBlock) and analysis (Benchling, Snapgene, APE, etc.).

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

$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 [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.