Research Scientist - Neurology - (BRAINS Lab/Urayama Lab)

UTHealth; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

UTHealth Houston is seeking a full-time Research Scientist at the BRAINS Research Laboratory to work on innovative projects focused on the blood-brain barrier and neurodegenerative models. The role involves experimental design, data analysis, and mentoring within a collaborative team environment, with a focus on impactful scientific research.

Benefits

100% paid medical premiums for full-time employees

Generous paid time off

Accrued vacation based on tenure

Longevity pay after two years of service

Retirement/pension plan

Qualifications

• At least two years of research experience with verifiable publications in the relevant field.
• No specific certification required.
• Must reside and work in Texas.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and prepare publications.
• Assist in training and mentoring lab personnel and trainees.
• Collaborate and communicate effectively with team members.

Skills

Quantitative optical methods

Molecular/biochemical analyses

Neuroimmunology

Behavioral neuroscience

Education

Doctorate Degree

Job description

What we do here changes the world. UTHealth Houston is Texas’ resource for healthcare education, innovation, scientific discovery, and excellence in patient care. That’s where you come in.

A Research Scientist position is available at the BRAINS Research Laboratory

Position Summary:

The BRAINS Research Laboratory in the Department of Neurology is seeking a full-time, benefits-eligible Research Scientist to join a dynamic team focused on the blood-brain barrier in normal and neurodegenerative models, including Alzheimer’s disease. Current projects involve intravital two-photon microscopy imaging of cerebrovasculature in brain aging and neurodegeneration, with future work integrating vascular mechanosensing and neuroimmunology. This is an NIH grant-funded position. The lab is equipped with a custom-built two-photon laser-scanning microscope and primary cell culture facilities.

Applicants should have experience in quantitative optical methods in vivo and in vitro, molecular/biochemical analyses, neuroimmunology, and/or behavioral neuroscience. The position is available immediately, with salary based on experience and standards at UTHealth.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Design and conduct experiments, analyze data, and prepare publications.
2. Assist in training and mentoring lab personnel and trainees.
3. Review relevant literature.
4. Collaborate and communicate effectively with team members.
5. Communicate findings clearly in writing and orally.
6. Perform additional duties as assigned.

This position is grant-funded for at least 50% of its scope. Continued employment depends on funding availability, and employment may end if funding is discontinued.

Location: 6431 Fannin Street, Houston, Texas 77030

Why join us? We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• 100% paid medical premiums for full-time employees
• Generous paid time off (holidays, vacation, sick leave)
• Accrued vacation based on tenure
• Longevity pay after two years of service
• Retirement/pension plan

Employee wellbeing: We provide work/life services such as financial and legal counseling, mental health services, wellness programs, employee discounts, and resources for child and elder care.

Additional Position Details:

Plans, supervises, and directs research activities, providing technical expertise in experimental design and analysis across various biomedical fields. Responsibilities include evaluating project feasibility, designing and conducting complex experiments, analyzing data, publishing results, maintaining lab equipment, ensuring safety, and leading projects.

Qualifications:

Doctorate Degree and at least two years of research experience with verifiable publications in the relevant field. No specific certification required.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to exert up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and 10 pounds frequently; work may involve hazardous agents.

Security Sensitive: Yes, per Texas Education Code § 51.215.

Residency: Must reside and work in Texas.