Staff Scientist II

Saint Louis University; Missouri; On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Saint Louis University in Missouri is seeking a Staff Scientist II to lead complex in vivo and in vitro neuroscience research, oversee disease models, and generate data for grant applications and publications.

The role emphasizes training and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, and junior faculty, while maintaining rigorous lab operations and collaboration with internal and external partners.

Qualifications

• Extensive (>20 years) experience in rodent neuroscience and inflammation.
• Extensive hands-on laboratory experience with neuroscience methods.
• Proven ability to train and mentor students and junior staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex in vivo rodent studies and disease model development.
• Design and lead independent research projects and grant-related work.
• Mentor trainees and ensure data integrity and compliance.
• Collaborate with industry partners and manage multiple projects.

Skills

Neuroscience research

Rodent models

Biochemical & molecular techniques

PK/PD studies

Experimental design & leadership

Mentoring & training

Scientific communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in science

Advanced degree preferred

Tools

qRT-PCR

Immunoblotting

Spectrophotometers

Chromatography systems

Centrifuges

Microscopes

Tissue dissection equipment

Job description

Who is Saint Louis University?

Founded in 1818, Saint Louis University is one of the nation's oldest and most prestigious Catholic universities. SLU, which also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, is recognized for world-class academics, life-changing research, compassionate health care, and a strong commitment to faith and service.

JOB SUMMARY

Under general direction, the Staff Scientist II serves as a senior scientific leader responsible for the design, execution, and oversight of complex in vivo and in vitro neuroscience research. This role supports multiple funded and pending research projects, contributes to the development of new experimental models, and plays a critical role in generating data for grant applications and publications. The position is essential for maintaining laboratory operations, ensuring scientific rigor, and providing advanced training and mentorship to trainees at all levels, including undergraduate students, graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior investigators. The Staff Scientist II integrates research activities with the educational mission of the University by fostering a high-quality, hands‑on training environment.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Advanced In Vivo Research & Model Development: Conduct and oversee complex in vivo rodent studies in neuroscience, including maintenance of genetically engineered mouse colonies, behavioral testing, tissue dissection, and implementation of disease models. Perform procedures ranging from compound dosing and injections to advanced surgical interventions, including anesthesia and euthanasia support.
2. Experimental Design & Independent Research Leadership: Independently design, develop, and implement innovative experimental approaches and new disease models. Lead components of research programs, contributing to study design, troubleshooting, and optimization of methodologies to support high-impact publications and grant applications.
3. Training, Mentorship & Workforce Development: Provide comprehensive training and supervision to undergraduate students, graduate trainees, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. Ensure proper experimental techniques, data integrity, and adherence to laboratory protocols. Mentor trainees in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, directly supporting the integration of research and education.
4. Grant Support & Data Generation: Contribute to the generation of preliminary and ongoing data required for grant submissions, renewals, and progress reports. Support multiple concurrent projects to ensure timely completion of research milestones.
5. Industry Collaboration & Research Partnerships: Serve as a liaison with pharmaceutical and industry partners to establish and maintain research collaborations and contracts, enhancing translational impact and external funding opportunities.
6. Molecular & Biochemical Research Support: Perform and oversee advanced laboratory techniques including tissue processing, biochemical analyses, DNA/RNA/protein isolation, qRT-PCR, immunoblotting, and related methodologies. Ensure accuracy, reproducibility, and proper documentation of results.
7. Data Analysis, Management & Reporting: Compile, process, and analyze experimental data. Maintain detailed and accurate research records, manage datasets, and prepare findings for presentations, publications, and reports.
8. Laboratory Operations & Equipment Oversight: Ensure efficient laboratory operations, including management of workflows, coordination of experiments, and maintenance and operation of scientific equipment such as spectrophotometers, chromatography systems, centrifuges, incubators, and microscopes.
9. Compliance & Safety: Ensure adherence to institutional, regulatory, and safety guidelines related to animal research, laboratory procedures, and data management.
10. Additional Duties: Perform other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Extensive (>20 years) experience in rodent research in neuroscience and inflammation. Extensive experience in biochemical and molecular biology techniques. Extensive experience conducting PK/PD studies. Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute complex experiments. Proven track record of training and mentoring individuals across all levels, from students to junior faculty. Strong knowledge of experimental design and pharmacology in a translational research setting. Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem‑solving skills. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Supervisory and interpersonal skills with the ability to lead in a collaborative environment. Ability to manage multiple projects and adapt to evolving research priorities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline or related field required; advanced degree preferred. Extensive hands‑on laboratory experience and specialized knowledge in neuroscience research methodologies required.

Function Scientists Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

Saint Louis University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for the position applied for without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, military/veteran status, gender identity, or other non-merit factors. If accommodations are needed for completing the application and/or with the interviewing process, please contact Human Resources at 314-977-5847. Saint Louis University is a premier employer in the St. Louis region that attracts faculty and staff from around the world. We recruit people of all faiths who share our mission to pursue truth for the greater glory of God and the service of others.