Staff Scientist, Dept. Biochemistry & Biophysics - University of Rochester

GENERAL PURPOSE: The purpose of this position is to provide advanced doctorate level scientific research for the Yu laboratory in the Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics and Center for RNA Biology. A full-time Staff Scientist position is available to improve the understanding of how ribonucleic acid (RNA) modification contributes to gene expression regulation in the cell. More specifically, the incumbent will lead an effort to develop a new strategy for the treatment of Neurofibromatosis Type1 (NF1), which is outlined in the grant proposal entitled "Suppression of NF1 Nonsense Mutations by RNA-guided RNA Pseudouridylation". Under general direction from Dr. Yi-Tao Yu and with considerable latitude for exercising independent scientific judgment, this position provides direct research contributions to the laboratory by directing independent, complex research projects and/or major aspects of larger research projects. Provides guidance and/or directly supervises research technicians, graduate students, PhD, Post-Doctoral laboratory members, and technicians. May work as an independent researcher in a scientifically unique phase of research as part of a larger, complex project. Importantly, the candidate must be able to work well with others, and be a proficient communicator/instructor. The position requires an understanding of the scientific process that facilitates grant and manuscript generation, and a familiarity with the workings of the regulatory bodies of the University to allow for a productive lab environment. **RESPONSIBILITIES:** + With guidance from the Pl, designs and conducts complex experiments independently using yeast and mammalian cell culture and molecular biology procedures, including viral and non-viral transfections, Northern blotting, Western blotting, and cloning. Develops and installs protocols relevant to the research experiments and independently operates complex scientific equipment. + Independently analyzes and evaluates scientific experimental data and provides the interpretation of results within the scope of the study. Develops and modifies test methods; selects procedures for data collection and data handling. Develops, utilizes, or adapts computer programs for statistical treatment and evaluation of scientific data. + Generates protocols and presentations relevant to the conduct of scientific research using Excel, GraphPad Prism, PowerPoint, and Adobe Illustrator software that include: purposes of study, design of experiments, list(s) of materials and methods used, the schedule of activities, results obtained and scientific interpretation and discussion. + Contributes significantly to the writing of scientific research publications, grant applications, and conference presentations, thereby meeting the requirements for co-authorship. + Attendance at seminars/meetings: Facilitate, participate, and attend lab meetings. Other duties as assigned. **QUALIFICATIONS:** **Required:** + Doctoral degree with major course work in the field of assignment and a minimum of 2-5 years of relevant postdoctoral training. + Extensive expertise in mammalian cell culture and molecular biology procedures including viral and non-viral transfections, RNAi knockdowns, Western blotting, and DNA cloning. **Preferred:** + Ph.D. and/or MD with demonstrable expertise in molecular biology preferred. + This position requires ability to work independently and good mentoring skills are desired. + Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including written communication. + Strong analytical skills and ability to work both independently and within a team. The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations. **How To Apply** All applicants must apply online. _EOE Minorities/Females/Protected Veterans/Disabled_ **Pay Range** Pay Range: $ 50,000 - $100,000 Annually _The referenced pay range represents the minimum and maximum compensation for this job. Individual annual salaries/hourly rates will be set within the job’s compensation range, and will be determined by considering factors including, but not limited to, market data, education, experience, qualifications, expertise of the individual, and internal equity considerations._ **Location:** School of Medicine & Dentistry **Full/Part Time:** Full-Time **Opening:** Full Time 40 hours Grade 055 Biochemistry and Biophysics **Schedule:** 9 AM-5:30 PM; OCC WKNDS