Research Scientist

HU101 The Howard University; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 59,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Flexible work arrangements

401(k) match

Wellness programs

Job summary

Howard University seeks a Biomedical Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Fellow in neuroscience and genomic regulation to drive independent and collaborative projects that advance health equity through cutting-edge biomedical research.

The candidate will design and execute studies on neuroprotection, neuroinflammation, and genomics, including rodent stroke models, advanced imaging, and molecular assays, under PI supervision while mentoring trainees and ensuring compliance with biosafety policies.

Qualifications

• PhD in relevant biomedical field; 5+ years postdoctoral/research experience preferred.
• Experience with rodent models, stereotaxic surgery, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute neuroscience and genomics-focused experiments.
• Perform rodent stroke surgeries (MCAO; Photothrombotic) and tissue collection.
• Conduct molecular assays (DNA, RNA, proteins) to characterize neuronal functions.
• Utilize imaging and spatial profiling systems (confocal, GeoMx, etc.).
• Analyze, interpret, and present data at seminars and meetings.
• Prepare manuscripts, progress reports, and grants with PI.
• Mentor students and trainees in lab methods and ethics.

Skills

rodent models

stereotaxic surgery

neuroscience

molecular biology

imaging analysis

bioinformatics

publication record

mentoring

data analysis

Education

Ph.D. in Neuroscience

Tools

confocal microscopy

Job description

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff “for fit” makes significant contributions to Howard University’s overall mission. At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us! https://hr.howard.edu/benefits-wellness

JOB PURPOSE:

Howard University seeks a highly skilled and motivated Biomedical Research Scientist or Postdoctoral Fellow specializing in neuroscience and genomic regulation to join its growing biomedical research enterprise. The incumbent will design and implement independent and collaborative projects focused on neuroscience and molecular/cellular signaling, contributing to Howard University’s mission of advancing health equity through cutting-edge biomedical research.

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY:

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, formally plans, executes the designated project (s) in the laboratory. Typically, responsible for performing non-supervisory duties, but usually participates in the training and supervision of the laboratory work of students.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include investigators, administrators, faculty, staff and students both within the department/center and University-wide. External contacts include government agencies, scientific collaborators, vendors, visitors and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Design and execute experimental studies in molecular and cellular neuroscience, focusing on neuroprotection, neuroinflammation and genomics.
• Perform advanced rodent stroke surgeries (MCAO; Photothrombotic), tissue collection, immunohistochemistry (IHC), confocal microscopy, and image analysis.
• Conduct molecular and biochemical assays (DNA, RNA, and protein-based techniques) to characterize neuronal and metabolic functions.
• Utilize and maintain advanced imaging and spatial profiling systems (e.g., confocal, expansion microscopy, nCounter, or GeoMx digital spatial profiling).
• Analyze, interpret, and present data at internal seminars, conferences, and scientific meetings.
• Prepare manuscripts, progress reports, and grant proposals in collaboration with principal investigators.
• Mentor students, fellows, and research trainees in laboratory methods and research ethics.
• Ensure full compliance with Howard University, NIH, and federal policies on biosafety, animal care, and research integrity.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

• Experience with surgical stroke models.
• Familiarity with digital spatial profiling, multiplex imaging, or bioinformatics analysis.
• Experience contributing to NIH-funded research projects.
• Prior supervisory or mentoring experience in academic or laboratory settings.
• Advanced technical expertise in neuroscience and metabolism research.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data management.
• Commitment to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and ethical research practices.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., D.V.M., or equivalent) in Neuroscience, Biochemistry, Physiology, Molecular Biology, or a related biomedical field.
• At least 5 years of postdoctoral or equivalent research experience in neuroscience, molecular biology, or related biomedical research areas.
• Demonstrated proficiency with rodent models, stereotaxic surgery, microscopy, and molecular biology techniques.
• Evidence of a strong publication record in high-impact journals.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Compensation Range:

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure Compensation Range: $59,000 - $65,000

Howard University is a comprehensive, research-oriented, historically Black private university providing an educational experience of exceptional quality to students of high academic potential with particular emphasis upon the provision of educational opportunities to promising Black students. Further, the University is dedicated to attracting and sustaining a cadre of faculty who are, through their teaching and research, committed to the development of distinguished and compassionate graduates and to the quest for solutions to human and social problems in the United States and throughout the world.

Howard University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, sex,sexual orientation,gender or gender identity, marital status, religion, disability or protected veterans status. Veterans and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Inquiries regarding provisions for persons with disabilities or veterans status, Equal Employment Opportunity and Title IX should be directed to the Office of Employee Relations and Equal Employment Opportunity at 202-806-1280.

This position description should not be construed to imply that these requirements are the exclusive standards of the position. Incumbents will follow any other instructions, and perform any other related duties, as may be required. The university has the right to revise this position description at any time. This position description is not be construed as a contract for employment.