Research Opportunities

Dougherty Lab

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

This is an exciting research opportunity in the Dougherty lab in the Department of Genetics. We are seeking a motivated scientist to join our team! Work in the lab involves conducting rodent behavioral and molecular analyses for NIH-, foundation-, privately-, and university-funded projects. This includes collecting behavioral data, conducting preliminary data quality analysis, maintaining experimental mouse lines, and performing molecular assays for genotype determination. Additional responsibilities and opportunities include statistical analysis and data interpretation, and assisting the team to bring new behavioral assays online. This position requires flexible hours as evening and weekend work may be required as needed on a study by study basis.

The Dougherty lab uses genomics and experimental systems to define molecular mechanisms underlying genetic risk in psychiatric disease. This includes cutting edge molecular, genetic, behavioral, and bioinformatic techniques to study transcriptional and translational regulation and its dysregulation in psychiatric disease, genetic variation in psychiatric diseases. We are primarily focused on autism, and the functional impact of distinct genetic liabilities of neurodevelopmental disorders (e.g., PMIDs: 3461442, 374267561, 37370259).

Job Description

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.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience or proficiency with statistical analysis and relevant software such as IBM SPSS Statistics, GraphPad Prism, or R Programming.
  • Computational skills using relevant software such as R Programming, Python or MATLAB.
  • Rodent handling experience.
  • Behavioral testing experience.
  • Experience with behavioral tracking software such as Noldus Ethovision or Stoelting Any-maze.
  • Strong skills in scientific and critical thinking.
  • Computer skills: proficient with Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Strong oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently as well as with a team.
  • Basic wet lab skills such as pipetting and laboratory record keeping.

Required Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree or higher in relevant field; a combination of education and experience may be considered.

Grade

Salary Range

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 Internal Applicant FAQ.

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email CandidateQuestions@wustl.edu 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 current employees and contingent workers receiving an offer for employment may be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings may 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

Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of 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.

Special Instructions for Current Staff Workers:

A current signed performance evaluation (completed within the last 18 months) should be attached on your application. If you have not received a performance evaluation, you may provide two current signed letters of recommendation (written within the last 18 months), preferably to include one letter from either a current or recent former supervisor. If you are not able to provide the documentation at this time, you may be asked to provide later in the process. If you have questions about transfer application or policy, please visit https://hr.wustl.edu/careers/internal-candidates/