Research Senior Associate- Neurology

Ohio State University; United States; On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Paid time off

Retirement plan

Job summary

Ohio State University in Columbus, OH is seeking a Research Senior Associate to design, execute, and manage research projects exploring epigenomic and transcriptomic mechanisms contributing to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. The role works closely with the principal investigator to achieve study goals and conduct advanced molecular techniques in a foundational biology lab.

The ideal candidate holds an advanced degree with strong knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases,

Qualifications

• The ideal candidate has an advanced degree or equivalent experience.
• Strong project management and leadership skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee data collection, processing, and analysis; interpret research findings and refine methodologies.
• Develop study goals, implement experiments, and collaborate with the PI and team.
• Assist in grant proposals, budgeting, and external funding opportunities.
• Train and supervise staff and students; manage procurement and facility operations.
• Ensure laboratory safety, regulatory compliance, and proper disposal of materials.

Job description

Job Title

Research Senior Associate

Department

Medicine | Neurology

Position Overview

The Department of Neurology seeks a Research Senior Associate to design, execute, and manage research projects investigating epigenomic and transcriptomic mechanisms that contribute to neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases in a foundational biological/health science laboratory. Working in close collaboration with the principal investigator (PI), the incumbent develops and implements study goals and objectives, conceptualizes and conducts moderately complex laboratory experiments, and applies advanced molecular, cellular, or other specialized techniques.

Responsibilities

Planning, coordinating, and overseeing data collection, processing, and analysis; interpreting research findings; and developing or refining methodologies, experimental designs, sampling techniques, and analytical approaches. The Research Senior Associate establishes research controls, criteria, and standards, performs critical literature reviews, and contributes to the preparation of manuscripts, reports, and presentations for national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars. The role assists the PI in preparing grant proposals to secure new or renewal extramural funding, identifies potential funding sources, and participates in budget development and expense monitoring. Additional responsibilities include ensuring laboratory safety and regulatory compliance (OSHA, local, state, and federal), overseeing proper disposal and maintenance of regulated materials, and managing daily laboratory operations. The incumbent trains and supervises research staff and students, coordinates procurement of supplies and equipment, provides technical oversight, and manages service contracts and repairs. This position requires strong project management, technical expertise, and leadership skills to advance the department’s research mission.

Additional Information

The ideal candidate holds an advanced degree (or equivalent experience) with strong theoretical knowledge of neurodegenerative diseases, molecular biology, and biochemistry, and has preferably conducted laboratory research on molecular alterations in neurodegeneration, including transcriptional and cell biology analysis, epigenomics, and circadian biology. They should have proven hands‑on expertise in biochemical and molecular techniques, such as DNA/RNA isolation and analysis, Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, microscopy, and tissue culture, as well as advanced omics methods, including nuclear isolation and library preparation for single‑cell and spatial omics. Experience with mouse colony management, breeding, surgery, and behavioral testing is required. The candidate should excel in experimental design, adapt methods to achieve results, integrate data from multiple sources to draw sound conclusions, and critically read scientific literature to inform their experiments. Experience developing hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and writing manuscripts is highly desirable, as is a record of contributing innovative ideas and techniques to complex, multidisciplinary, milestone‑driven projects in a collaborative setting. Strong organizational skills are essential, including laboratory management, record‑keeping, supply ordering, and logistics, along with proficiency in software applications for producing reports, graphs, spreadsheets, and data tracking and analysis.

Requirements

Requires successful completion of a background check; qualified candidates may be asked to complete a pre‑employment physical, including a drug screen.

Location

Biomedical Research Tower (0112)

Position Type

Regular

Scheduled Hours

40

Shift

First Shift

Benefits

Ohio State benefits give you options to take care of what matters most to you — and opportunities to make adjustments as your life and needs change, including:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage, with Ohio State paying a significant portion of the cost.
• Paid time off, including sick and vacation time and 11 holidays.
• State retirement plan or an alternative retirement plan, both with generous employer contributions.

Equal Opportunity

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

Culture

As Buckeyes, we accomplish more together. No matter your role, you’ll be part of creating what people need now: pathways to education, research and health care. Working at Ohio State means you’re part of a team with a strong sense of community and an unwavering commitment to excellence — and, of course, incomparable Buckeye spirit. We bring out the best in people, help each other succeed and learn together. By joining Ohio State, you become part of a top-20 public university with one of America’s leading academic health centers. We’re a team of dedicated colleagues with access to boundless resources that support you.