Staff Scientist

Job Summary

The Lichtman Lab is in need of a Staff Scientist to plan, develop, design, and conduct independent scientific research investigating neural circuitry. The Staff Scientist will use a combination of techniques including in-vivo high-speed imaging with voltage-sensors, confocal imaging, and correlative light and electron microscopy to examine mechanisms underlying development, age-related and pathophysiological changes in circuitry. This is a one-year term position contingent on grant funding. This person will report directly to Principal Investigator (and Dean of Science), Dr. Jeff Lichtman.

Position Description

Research

• In consultation with the Principal Investigator (PI), conduct independent scientific research projects investigating neural circuitry in mice using techniques such as confocal imaging, voltage-sensitive indicators, and correlative light and electron microscopy.

• Analyze, synthesize, and interpret experimental results from electrophysiological and imaging datasets.

• Identify and troubleshoot any issues with research protocols or equipment.

• Prepare and/or collaborate on articles for submission to scientific journals and publications.

• Present and co-present results with PI at meetings and/or conferences nationally and internationally.

• Assist in preparing proposals for funding.

Team Member/Collaborator Support

• Participate in group meetings and discussions, providing subject matter expertise to the design and execution of independent research.

• Advise on experimental design and applicability.

• Provide training to researchers, faculty, and students to advance their knowledge of the research and best practices.

• Collaborate with lab members and external collaborators, making recommendations on scientific procedures and analysis.
• Assist with monitoring of laboratory safety compliance and ensure compliance with University policies, procedures, and applicable legal rules and regulations

Basic Qualifications

• A minimum of a master's degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology or related field required.

• 5+ years of relevant experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Ph.D. in Molecular and Cellular Biology or related field preferred.
• Experience handling rodents required.
• Experience with rodent stereotaxic surgery is needed.
• Experience with molecular and cellular biology techniques including confocal imaging, voltage imaging, patch clamp recording, and correlative light and electron microscopy.
• Experience with data analysis software including MATLAB, Python, and ImageJ.

• Experience with neural circuitry.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Capable of organized, goal motivated output.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• The position requires fine motor control for performing stereotaxic surgeries on rodents. There will be periods of frequent sitting and/or standing.

Working Conditions

• Work will be done in a lab setting.
• Occasional visits to other labs or workshops may be required (less than 5% of time; national and international visits).

Additional Information

We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.

This is a one year term position.

This position is included within the Harvard Academic Workers (HAW) union.

All formal offers will be made by FAS Human Resources.

Work Format Details

This position is based primarily on-campus, in Massachusetts. This may include in-person during emergency situations (if applicable). Additional details will be discussed during the interview process.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website ( ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.