The selected staff scientist will lead multidisciplinary investigations into preclinical efficacy studies using animal models of neuromuscular disease.

Specifically, this Staff Scientist will:

• Guide critical scientific and training components of a gene therapy project for patients with neuromuscular disease.
• Lead collaborative, multidisciplinary investigations into candidate gene therapy approaches using animal models of neuromuscular disease.
• Develop innovative research projects, conduct experiments, analyze data independently, write high-impact manuscripts, and manage revisions to ensure the dissemination of significant scientific findings.
• Maintain core mouse lines and viral tools, including genotyping, histology, and confirmatory molecular marker imaging and analysis.
• Maintain, optimize, develop, and share analysis code and processing pipelines.
• Maintain and advance core lab technologies, including precision viral injections, electrophysiology recordings, histology equipment, and a suite of mouse behavior testing equipment.
• Design and develop cutting-edge novel motor control assays, particularly those focused on muscle function.
• Collaborate inside and outside the lab, fostering integrity and accountability.
• Mentor junior researchers (graduate students, postbacs, and summer students), with direct supervision of at least 1 trainee.

Prospective scientists must have a Ph.D., preferably with doctoral research focused on neuromuscular disease, and possess over 5 years of postdoctoral research experience including both experimental and translational approaches. Candidates should also exhibit proven leadership skills in collaborative research, including contributing to multiple projects, developing new initiatives, and conducting independent research. They should also have experience mentoring summer students or postbacs and a track record of fostering trainee scientific growth and professional development.

Lastly, candidates should have ample hands-on research expertise in mouse model gene therapy studies and exhibit fluency in spoken and written English, with a demonstrated ability to present at conferences and publish high-quality manuscripts.

The position is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Selection for this position will be based solely on merit, with no discrimination for non-merit reasons such as race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, political affiliation, marital status, disability, age, or membership or non-membership in an employee organization. The NIH encourages the application and nomination of qualified women, minorities, and individuals with disabilities. U.S. citizens and permanent residents are eligible to apply.