Research Assistant Professor

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 99,000; Full time

Job summary

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science seeks a full-time researcher for molecular endocrinology, diabetes, and obesity research. This position requires collaboration in project planning, data collection, and analysis, focusing on lab techniques and small animal studies. Applicants should have an MD or PhD, three years of postdoctoral experience, and expertise in statistical research methods.

The role includes formal mentorship for students and opportunities to publish findings. Annual salary is $90,000.

Qualifications

• Three years as a postdoctoral fellow in an academic research lab.
• Experience in peer-review publications and scientific meetings.
• Evidence of successful grant applications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and plan research in collaboration with the Principal Investigator.
• Organize and implement complex research plans.
• Conduct analyses and submit findings for peer review publication.

Skills

Analytical communication

Statistical research methods

Mammalian tissue culture

Protein extraction

Critical thinking

Time management

Education

MD, PhD or equivalent degree

Tools

Real-time RT-PCR

Western blot

Immunohistochemistry

DNA cloning

Job description

Job Summary

Under the general direction of the Principal Investigator, performs independent research in support of molecular endocrinology, diabetes, and obesity research laboratory. Current projects involve endocrine effects of e-cigarettes. Responsibilities include project planning, data collection, experimental protocols and procedures; bench work involving lab techniques focused on molecular biology, and small animal studies.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• Design and plan research in collaboration with the Principal Investigator
• Organize and implement complex research plans, including development of methods, testing, data collection, analysis, and evaluation, and write reports containing descriptive, analytical, and evaluative content.
• Conduct analyses and submit findings for peer review publication.
• Provide formal mentorship support to students and trainees.
• Enhance opportunities for students and trainees to participate in research when possible.
• Design, analyze, implement, and report findings on targeted statistical research studies; provide consultation to investigators and researchers on experimental design and statistical research approaches, requirements, and scientific standards to advance medical knowledge and improve research in public health.
• Work with investigators to formalize analysis plans and reporting specifications; advise on choice of statistical analysis strategies, reliability of measurements and identifiability of models, and interpretation and presentation of statistical results.
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with individuals in different disciplines and serve as subject‑matter expert for research teams, internal and external committees, and other constituencies and collaborators.
• Plan and document computer data file structure; develop, program, manage, and maintain complex statistical databases; perform or supervise data entry.
• Conduct literature searches, gather and summarize relevant findings from the published scientific literature.
• Engage in weekly meetings with the PI and other research team members.
• Assist with writing papers for submission to peer‑review journals.

Other Duties And Responsibilities

• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications/Requirements

Education:

• MD, PhD or equivalent degree from an accredited institution required.

Experience:

• Three (3) years as a postdoctoral fellow and experience in an academic research laboratory.
• Experience communicating research in peer‑review publications, scientific meetings, and interdisciplinary stakeholder, regulatory, or policy‑related meetings.
• Prior experience writing and publishing peer‑reviewed manuscripts.
• Evidence of successful grant applications preferred.
• Past evidence of designing and leading research studies preferred.

Knowledge/Ability/Skills

• Knowledge of scientific approach and methodologies.
• Knowledge and understanding of the principles, concepts, methods, and standards of statistical research.
• Protein and RNA extraction from mouse tissues and mammalian cells.
• Mammalian tissue culture.
• siRNA transfection in vivo and in vitro.
• Real‑time RT‑PCR.
• Western blot.
• Immunohistochemistry.
• DNA cloning and plasmid purification.
• Perform animal studies including diabetic animal model generation and treatment.
• Animal tissue collection.
• Knowledge of scientific reporting and manuscript preparation requirements and standards.
• Ability to work in a team environment to design, analyze, and report on research projects.
• Strong analytical communication, critical thinking, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to provide technical guidance and leadership to professional personnel in area of expertise.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize projects.
• In‑depth knowledge and understanding of probability and medical statistics theory.
• Knowledge of data management principles and regulatory requirements for clinical trials and medical research.
• Strong focus on quality and timely delivery of work.

Compensation

• $90,000 annually

Position Status

• Full Time

Work Location

• On‑site

Conditional Statement

• The employment status of this position is classified as “Conditional.” Conditional employment means that the job exists contingent upon continued funding and limitations of restricted funds or the duration of a specific program, project, grant, or contract. Since this position is funded by AIM, End Date: 07/31/2025 and R35, End Date: 04/30/2026, this position is contingent upon the continued receipt of these funds. Continuation of this position is dependent, in part, upon funding availability. Furthermore, no work may be performed after the grant end date(s) unless the position receives an extension in writing from a Dean, Division VP, or Human Resources.

EEO Statement

Charles R. Drew University is committed to Equal Employment Opportunity. Applicants will be considered without regard to gender, race, age, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability or covered veteran status.

Fair Chance Statement

Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science will consider qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local “Fair Chance” laws.