Research Associate

Top 2 Percent Scientists; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Paid leave

Retirement plan

Disability insurance

Job summary

Top 2 Percent Scientists seeks a Research Associate for the VDJ Lab at RFU to study synaptic degeneration mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease and aging. You will integrate mouse models and human iPSC-derived neurons, using histopathology, microscopy, biochemistry, proteomics, and viral gene manipulation.

The role offers mentorship, career development, and opportunities for high-impact publications. A PhD is required, with strong teamwork and scientific rigor expected.

Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience or Neurodegeneration.
• iPSC-derived neurons culture experience.
• CRISPR-Cas9 experience is a plus.
• Mouse model experiments incl. behavior assays and immunoassays.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop independent projects on synaptic degeneration in Parkinson's and aging.
• Utilize mouse models and human iPSC-derived neurons with advanced techniques.
• Mentor team members and support career development.
• Contribute to high-impact publications.

Skills

Cell culture

Viral vectors

Transfection

Live-cell imaging

PCR

Western blot

CRISPR

Education

PhD in Neuroscience or Neurodegeneration

Tools

Histology

Microscopy

Biochemistry

Proteomics

Stereotaxic injections

Job description

Position: Research Associate – Neurodegeneration/Neuroscience

Type: Full-Time

Salary: $50,000 – $52,000 per year (based on experience)

Location: Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases and Therapeutics, Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (RFU), RFU Campus

Application Deadline: Not specified

Overview

The VDJ Lab at RFU seeks a Research Associate to lead and develop independent projects focused on synaptic degeneration mechanisms in Parkinson’s disease and aging. The lab integrates mouse models and human iPSC‑derived neurons, employing advanced techniques in histopathology, microscopy, biochemistry, proteomics, viral gene manipulation, and cell biology. This role provides mentorship, career development support, and the opportunity to contribute to high‑impact publications.

Requirements

• PhD in Neuroscience or Neurodegeneration.
• Experience with cell culture (iPSC‑derived neurons), viral vectors, transfection, live‑cell imaging, PCR, Western blotting; CRISPR‑Cas9 experience is a plus.
• Experience or willingness to learn mouse model experiments, including behavior assays, immunoassays, and stereotaxic injections.
• Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills with scientific rigor and attention to detail.
• Position requires satisfactory background check.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proven research track record using human iPSC‑derived neurons in Parkinson’s disease studies, including lead‑author publications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Paid parental leave, vacation, personal leave, sick days, holidays, and winter break.
• Short‑ and long‑term disability plans, life insurance, flexible spending accounts.
• 403(b) retirement plan with 8% employer contribution after 2 years.

RFU is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

Lab Website: VDJ Lab