Research Scientist III, Department of Basic Medical Sciences (COM-Phoenix)

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 59,000 - 74,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

Tuition reduction

Retirement plans

Job summary

The University of Arizona in Phoenix invites applications for a Research Scientist III in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences. The role focuses on molecular mechanisms of experience-dependent plasticity in brain circuits, with opportunities to study gene regulation, development, and disease relevance.

Ideal candidates have neuroscience training and may bring skills in imaging, electrophysiology, or data analysis (MATLAB/Python/R) and mouse genetic models.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Advanced degree in Neuroscience or related field preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist with advanced neuroscience research, including calcium imaging and electrophysiology under PI direction.
• Formulate research methods and criteria for experiments.
• Conduct data collection, reduction and analyses with independent judgment.

Skills

Neuroscience

Imaging

Electrophysiology

MATLAB

Python

R

Education

Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or related field

Advanced degree in Neuroscience or related field

Tools

Calcium imaging

Single cell RNAseq

Spatial transcriptomics

Visium HD

Xenium

Mouse genetic models

Job description

Research Scientist III, Department of Basic Medical Sciences (COM-Phoenix)

Position Highlights

The laboratory of Shenfeng Qiu at the Department of Basic Medical Sciences is looking for an enthusiastic and motivated Researcher/Scientist III to work on research projects focused on the molecular mechanisms experience dependent plasticity within brain circuitry. This research will look at how this plasticity and maturation is regulated by known genes, how brain function and plasticity are disrupted in both neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, and what are the related cell type specific gene expression changes.

Ideal candidates will have training in Neuroscience or related field of study and an interest in the mechanisms of neural circuit function and plasticity. A quantitative background, experience in imaging or electrophysiology, and/or proficiency in MATLAB/Python/R, and/or experience with mouse genetic models, electrophysiology, single cell RNAseq and spatial transcriptomics, behavioral assays, are desirable but not required.

The position is part of a well-funded research program.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more! The University of Arizona has been recognized for our innovative work-life programs. For more information about working at the University of Arizona and relocations services, please click here .

Visa sponsorship is available for this positions.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Assist with advanced, multi-disciplinary research in neuroscience including calcium imaging, electrophysiology in vivo and in vitro, and molecular biology, under the direction of the principal investigator.
• Formulate research methods, develop research criteria.
• Performs scientific data collections, reductions, and analyses involving routine procedures characterized by use of independent judgment.
• Performs delicate small animal surgeries, single cell RNAseq and spatial transcriptomics (Visium HD and Xenium).
• Develop and maintain detailed surgical and related records.
• Participate in the acquisition of research funding by initiating and writing grant proposals.
• Participate or authors articles in peer-reviewed journals, books or chapter publications. Participate or presents at meetings and conferences.
• May co-author and may co-present results with principal investigators at meetings or conferences.
• Develop and implement protocols as dictated by experimental results. Conduct bioinformatics analysis on lab generated data.
• Oversee maintenance of hazardous/chemical waste records and disposal as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Excellent laboratory and analytical skills and commitment to scientific excellence and innovation.
• Knowledge of coordinating experiments, and completing statistics analysis, analysis of big datasets (Visium HD and Xenium) and interpretation.
• Ability to conduct research independently and within a team.
• Ability to communicate professionally in a clear, concise manner orally and in writing.
• Knowledge of grant writing and manuscript preparation.
• Ability to participate at scientific conferences and present findings.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience or related field of the biological sciences.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Neuroscience or related field of the biological sciences.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience performing the calcium imaging, electrophysiology, single cell RNAseq and spatial transcriptomics, and/or rodent survival surgeries.

FLSA Exempt

Full Time/Part Time Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week 40

Job FTE 1.0

Work Calendar Fiscal

Job Category Research

Benefits Eligible Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay $59,404 - $74,254

Compensation Type salary at 1.0 full-time equivalency (FTE)

Grade 8

The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona’s good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator .

Career Stream and Level PC3

Job Family Researchers & Scientists

Job Function Research

Type of criminal background check required Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies 1

Target Hire Date

Expected End Date

Contact Information for Candidates

Office of Human Resources, Talent Acquisition

[e-mail]

Open Date 9/21/2026

Open Until Filled Yes

Documents Needed to Apply Curriculum Vitae (CV) and Cover Letter

Special Instructions to Applicant

Application: The online application should be completed in its entirety. Blank or missed information may be considered an incomplete submission.

Cover Letter: Should clearly indicate how your skills and professional employment experience meet the Minimum and the Preferred qualifications (if applicable).

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Paper copies of the Reports can be obtained by contacting the University Compliance Office at [e-mail].