Research Scientist

at  Western University

ABOUT US

Microbiology & Immunology is a vibrant Department of scholarly activity offering a stimulating and dynamic environment attractive to outstanding students and leading researchers. The Department of Microbiology & Immunology is a core department of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and places a special emphasis on biomedical research and teaching with a focus on human disease, infection, and immunity.
The main mission of the Klein Lab is to define mechanisms the contribute to altered brain function after exposure to emerging RNA viruses. The lab uses in vitro and in vivo models to examine how viruses disrupt the blood brain barrier, promote microglia and astrocyte activation, and disrupt synapses and adult neurogenesis in the forebrain. We also collaborate with PET chemists and neuroimagers to identify prognostic biomarkers that can be used to follow treatments. Central to our work is the use of genetically modified mice to trace molecular mechanisms that contribute to post-viral cognitive dysfunction.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

• PhD in Neuroscience

Experience:

• 5 years of experience working in the area of flavivirus biology in a related academic research environment
• Experience performing flow cytometry, cytokine assays, and RNA sequencing for immune molecules
• Experience with in vitro and in vivo research using animal models
• Substantial work completed on postdoctoral research portfolio in a directly related field including a strong publication record including first author publications preferred

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Demonstrated expertise of scientific/research principles in their area of flavivirus biology
• In-depth knowledge of the regulations and guidelines governing research in an academic environment
• Project management skills to manage projects from conception to completion within tightly prescribed timelines
• In-depth knowledge of best practices for reviewing and writing grant proposals
• In-depth knowledge of techniques for updating, managing and extracting data from a research database
• In-depth knowledge of methods for research design, implementation, and analysis
• Ability to collaborate across internal and external boundaries to meet common objectives, improve outcomes and support work beyond one’s own unit
• Well-developed public speaking skills to engage individuals and audiences inside and outside the University
• Ability to work in a manner that models best practices in confidentiality standards
• Ability to provide solutions and ideas for improvement by using imaginative approaches where constructive thinking and innovation are required
• Attention to detail with an ability to retrieve, analyze and synthesize sizable amounts of data, while ensuring that information is accurate and comprehensive
• Ability and willingness to stay abreast of technological developments
• Advanced skills in software and applications used to produce and analyze research outcomes
• A desire to grow and advance skills, which is demonstrated by attending conferences, workshops and other professional developmental opportunities to enhance performance
• Ability to remain highly motivated, resilient, innovative, and collaborative when faced with challenges
• Ability to work within a flexible schedule to accommodate the research group’s events and activities
• Ability to provide guidance to assist others in solving complex problems
• Ability to interpret and identify key results or patterns in complex research data, and succinctly summarize findings
• Ability to coach students and support them to be self-directed and responsible for their own development and learning
• Ability to evaluate issues, recognize potential problems and take action to proactively resolve issues

The Research Scientist will provide guidance and consultation related to a variety of research functions related to emerging RNA virus research working in collaboration with the Principal Investigator. The role will facilitate research by participating in all stages of research design and implementation, including research development, funding, initiation, execution, analysis, interpretation, and presentation/publication of results. The role will be accountable for delivering research outcomes as outlined in the grant proposal and will collaborate with several internal and external research partners. The role will provide related guidance on research and experimental design and related equipment, as well as best approaches for project development, implementation, and evaluation.
The role will oversee research in the laboratory facility, foster research collaborations, and provide guidance to staff, students and post-doctoral fellows to solve research problems or issues that arise. The role will set research goals and objectives for the research, carry out and oversee original and independent research, develop new research initiatives and complete grant applications. The Research Scientist will also select and develop methods for data collection, publish and present findings, and develop new and innovative research approaches to achieve desired research outcomes.