Research Scientist- Neurological Institute

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University is seeking a Research Scientist to lead a neuroscience research program focused on neurodegeneration within the Neurology department. The role supports NeuroMAP and the NeuroATLAS platform, integrating advanced tissue clearing, light-sheet microscopy, AI image analysis, and multi-modal data integration.

You will mentor staff and work with collaborators to advance discovery. The position emphasizes scientific independence, collaboration, and securing extramural funding,

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant field.
• Experience with high-resolution imaging and biomedical image analysis is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a nationally competitive neurodegeneration research program.
• Develop and implement NeuroMAP and NeuroATLAS initiatives, including laboratory build-out and workflows.
• Collaborate across departments to secure extramural funding and publish in peer-reviewed journals.

Skills

High-resolution imaging

Machine learning

Quantitative image analysis

Biomedical image analysis

Multi-modal data integration

Study design & data interpretation

Education

Doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent) in Biology or related field

Tools

Light-sheet microscopy

Tissue clearing

AI-enabled image analysis

Job description

Job Title:Research Scientist- Neurological InstituteDepartment:Medicine | Neurology

The Research Scientist is responsible for leading and managing a nationally competitive research program focused on neurodegeneration within the Department of Neurology and advancing the newly established multi-department initiative, NeuroMAP (Neurodegenerative Mapping and Phenotyping). This highly specialized position requires independent scientific leadership and direct accountability for shaping and executing the research agenda. The individual will play a pivotal role in the development and implementation of NeuroMAP, with a primary emphasis on NeuroATLAS (Advanced Tissue Light-Sheet Microscopy Analysis and Segmentation). This work will support cutting-edge 3D tissue phenotyping through light-sheet microscopy, AI-enabled image analysis, and cross-organ data integration. In addition to conducting independent and collaborative research, the individual will be instrumental in establishing NeuroMAP , including laboratory build-out, implementation of specialized equipment, and development of operational workflows. A key responsibility of the role is contributing to the acquisition of salary and programmatic funding by providing scientific expertise, generating preliminary data, and supporting the development of competitive grant proposals as a co-investigator or collaborator for extramural sponsors.

Responsibilities span the full research lifecycle, including developing and testing novel hypotheses; planning, designing, and executing complex research studies; creating and implementing innovative research methodologies; conducting rigorous statistical analyses; and interpreting and communicating findings. The individual will contribute to scholarly dissemination through authorship of manuscripts, abstracts, presentations, and reports published in peer-reviewed journals. The position also carries responsibility for ensuring compliance with federal, institutional, and laboratory safety regulations while overseeing the day-to-day operations of the research program. This includes directing laboratory procurement activities, ensuring proper maintenance and operation of research equipment, fostering new collaborative opportunities, and providing formal supervision, training, and mentorship to junior research staff, postdoctoral scholars, residents, fellows, and students. Through these efforts, the individual will help advance the NeuroMAP mission and strengthen the institution’s leadership in neurodegenerative disease research.

Minimum Education & Experience Required

Doctoral degree (Ph.D., M.D., or equivalent terminal degree) in Biology, Molecular or Cellular Biology, Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering, or a closely related field, with advanced expertise in the relevant scientific discipline. Preferred candidates will have experience in high-resolution imaging, tissue clearing, light-sheet microscopy, biomedical image analysis, and the application of these technologies to research areas such as neurodegeneration, neuroimmunology, or aging. Strong experience with quantitative image analysis, machine learning, multi-modal data generation, quality control processes, and interpretation of complex research data is highly desirable. Successful completion of a background check is required as a condition of employment, and selected candidates may also be required to complete a pre-employment physical examination, including a drug screening.

NeuroMAP Lab located at 1381 Kinnear Rd, Columbus, OH 43212

Join an exciting and transformative research initiative at The Ohio State University as a Research Scientist supporting the newly established NeuroMAP (Neurodegenerative Mapping and Phenotyping) platform and the NeuroATLAS pillar. This highly visible leadership role offers the opportunity to advance cutting-edge research in neurodegeneration through the integration of advanced tissue clearing, light-sheet microscopy, artificial intelligence, and multi-modal data analysis. The successful candidate will help shape a nationally competitive research program, develop innovative imaging and analytical methodologies, collaborate with multidisciplinary investigators across translational neuroscience programs, and contribute to securing extramural funding. In addition to leading groundbreaking scientific discoveries, this position will play a pivotal role in building and optimizing a state-of-the‑art research infrastructure, mentoring the next generation of scientists, and advancing Ohio State's growing leadership in Alzheimer's disease and neurodegenerative disease research. Ideal for an established investigator seeking scientific independence, collaborative opportunities, and access to world‑class resources, this position offers the chance to make a lasting impact on neuroscience research and patient outcomes.

Location: Twelfth Ave, 395 W (0356)

Position Type: Regular

Scheduled Hours: 40

Shift: First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.