Staff Scientist I

A Little About Us The Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) was established in 2010 to plot a new course in biomedical research that would change the lives of individuals affected with developmental brain disorders. We are one of the only research institutions in the world focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence the way our brains develop that lead to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, bipolar disorder and related developmental brain disorders. Through our cutting‑edge research, answers are emerging and being translated into a robust pipeline of new drugs in development. And, by focusing on genes and their dynamic interplay with the environment, we are getting even closer to the “holy grail” in medical research, the discovery of strategies for primary prevention. LIBD is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD. Job Summary We are seeking an enthusiastic and highly motivated Staff Scientist with significant experience in cell cultures and molecular biology to join the URSINI lab at the Lieber Institute for Brain Development located on the Johns Hopkins medical campus in Baltimore, Maryland. Our team aims at identifying the early life mechanisms affecting trajectories of risk for schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders, so that strategies of early prevention could be defined. By joining our lab, the scientist will leverage iPSC‑derived 2D and 3D trophoblast cultures to understand the contribution of placenta to brain development and disorders like schizophrenia. This position offers the opportunity to contribute to a novel area of research with a high translational potential in a dynamic, collaborative environment. Key Responsibilities Implementation of 2D and 3D iPSC‑derived trophoblast cultures Design and execution of functional assays to compare cultures from patients and controls Gene manipulation through CRISPR‑related techniques Extraction of extracellular vesicles from conditioned media Contribution to library preparation for next generation sequencing experiments Lead and contribute to manuscript preparation, grant writing, and presentations for internal and external collaborators Other duties as assigned Minimum Qualifications Master’s degree in Neuroscience, Developmental or Molecular Biology, Cancer Biology, or related field and a minimum of 5 years related experience Ph.D. is strongly desired Expertise in placenta biology, neuroscience, placenta and brain organoids is highly desirable but not required Special Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Proficiency in cell culture assays Excellent organization and communication skills, with a track record of peer‑reviewed publications Initiative to learn new methods and ability to work in a team are essential Physical Requirements Remaining in a seated or standing position for extended periods of time Reaching and grasping to manipulate objects with fingers Mobility, including the ability to maneuver around a laboratory setting including the ability to move materials weighing up to 25 pounds Communication skills using the spoken and written word Having the ability to receive detailed information through oral communication All other physical demands in a standard laboratory environment Compensation Candidates are hired within the starting salary range for the position which is the lower portion of the overall range. The starting salary range for this position is $70k - $80k with opportunities for employee growth over time. Placement in the starting range is based on job‑related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process. Benefits The Lieber Institute for Brain Development offers a competitive, comprehensive benefits package to help us attract and retain the best talent. Please visit https://www.libd.org/careers/benefits/ for more information. EEOC Statement At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. As an equal opportunity employer, the Lieber Institute does not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability (physical or mental), genetic information, military service, or other non‑merit based factors protected by state or federal law or local ordinance, with regard to any position or employment for which the applicant or employee is qualified. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion The Lieber Institute for Brain Development is a transparent and collaborative community working to produce unique and imaginative patient‑oriented solutions to developmental neuropsychiatric disorders. It is committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries into a research team that draws upon the best of its staff. The Institute is historic—it is defining a unique model for ground‑breaking science. It values translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness. The Institute provides an environment that fosters independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community. Diverse minds, ideas, and talent are needed to support LIBD's mission. Fresh, innovative ideas and perspectives are a competitive necessity in an increasingly diverse and global marketplace. The success of the Institute's mission depends upon leveraging a diversity of talent. The Institute's commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance with laws and regulations that promote equal employment opportunity, prohibit discrimination and harassment, and support minority and woman owned businesses. To realize the advantages of its diversity, it is necessary to work effectively together even when differences challenge us to consider ideas and methods that seem impractical or make us feel uncomfortable. The Lieber Institute for Brain Development demonstrates its commitment to diversity by: Including others: Talent is not limited to those with a narrow set of industry and academic credentials. The Institute is committed to building diverse teams, inviting others to share their perspectives, seeking out a diversity of input when making decisions, questioning traditional thinking, and promoting continuous learning and development. Respecting one another: The Institute is committed to listening carefully to others, seeking consensus, engaging in active and constructive debate, thoughtfully challenging one another, and providing constructive feedback. Building trust: The Institute is committed to sharing information and resources, depending on one another to get things done, keeping promises, and conveying high integrity in all actions. #J-18808-Ljbffr