Staff Scientist

The Mechanistic Toxicology Branch advances the Division of Translational Toxicology's mission of supporting environmental public health policy by conducting investigative laboratory research, identifying environmental human health hazards, and furthering the DTT's mechanistic understanding of the relationship between environmental toxicity and human disease.

We are recruiting a title 42(g) staff scientist to initiate studies as part of on collaborative research team to develop New Approach Methodologies using a suite of neuroanatomical, neurodevelopmental, and molecular testing strategies. This research will be used to elucidate the mechanisms by which chemical agents affect the development and function of specific brain regions and systems. Specifically, the DTT is seeking a scientist with expertise in organoid neural network modeling and microfluidic technologies relevant to human neurodevelopmental disorders such as mesolimbic pathways, the hypothalamus, sexual differentiation, and/or the specific ages of neurodevelopment.

This positions responsibilities include, but are not be limited to:

• Supporting the planning and execution of research experiments as a part DTT research program, including in vivo neurotoxicology studies and the uncovering of toxicological properties of specific chemicals or chemical groups.
• Developing and validating New Approach Methodologies such as Standardized Organoid Modeling using specialized human and rodent cell cultures.
• Maintaining our research facilities and laboratory equipment, including training our staff in basic and advanced use of our specialized equipment for molecular biology assays, complex in vitro models, and developed NAMs.
• Communicating research activities and study results in branch meetings, reports, research presentations and manuscripts.
• Coordinating training and mentorship of fellows and trainees in proper safety procedures, protocols, lab operation, and maintenance of laboratory equipment and software.
• Publishing results and communicate research activities at national and international conferences.
• Providing on-site project expertise and support to DTT design teams in the screening, prioritization, and mechanistic comprehension of chemical and environmental factors related to human health.
• Promoting continuous skill and professional development of laboratory staff and trainees

Prospective candidates must possess a Ph.D., M.D., Pharm D., or an equivalent doctoral degree in Neuroscience, Developmental Biology, Endocrinology, or a related field. Preferably, Candidates will have at least 5 years of related postdoctoral research experience and the training necessary to conduct and manage complex collaborative research projects.

Demonstrated experience in collaborative research using a suite of neuroanatomical, neurobehavioral, and molecular testing strategies elucidating the mechanisms by which chemical agents affect the development and function of specific areas of the brain is ideal. Candidates must also be recognized as a scientifically active and respected as evidenced by honors, awards, presentations, contributions to public libraries, cited repositories, elected positions in professional societies, journal editorial positions, and/or reviewer positions for journal publications.

Candidates must have strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills, and be able to work in a team-based, collaborative, and multi-disciplinary organization. Skill in advising both technical and non-technical personnel is a plus.

U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply. NIH welcomes foreign nationals with the exception of individuals from this list.