Senior Research Scientist, Sjogren's Disease & Autoimmunity in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania at University of Pittsburgh

Senior Research Scientist, Sjogren's Disease & Autoimmunity

Med-Medicine - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26004165)

This position supports the research program of Dr. Rachael Gordon in the Division of Rheumatology and Clinical Immunology at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Gordon's program focuses on understanding the immunopathogenesis of Sjgren's disease (SjD) with the goal of identifying new therapeutic targets. The research program uses murine models of SjD, multiomics technologies, and a prospective SjD patient registry and biorepository to study novel pathogenic immune pathways, including the IL-12/IFN axis and infectious triggers of autoimmunity. The Senior Research Scientist will be expected to work independently, exercise scientific judgment across all aspects of the research program, and play a central role in driving projects forward from conception through publication.

Preferred qualifications include a PhD, MD/PhD, or equivalent professional doctorate in immunology, microbiology, or a related biomedical discipline, with a minimum of 5 years of relevant research experience and a track record of independent scientific productivity including peer-reviewed publications. Preferred technical experience includes in vivo mouse models of autoimmune or inflammatory disease, multiparameter or spectral flow cytometry, and human biospecimen processing. Experience with multiomics platforms such as single-cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, bulk RNA sequencing, or proteomics is strongly preferred, and the ability to independently analyze such datasets is a plus. Experience with human translational research is also advantageous. The ideal candidate will have strong problem-solving skills, clear scientific communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.

Job Summary

Serves as subject matter expert and conducts independent scientific research projects from inception to presentation. Prepares and crafts various complex documentations of research results into manuscripts, proposals, grant applications, and presentations. Trains undergraduates, junior lab members, and research technicians. Manages laboratory policies and coordinates high-level work and project development in collaboration with other specialists.

Essential Functions

-Independently designs and executes in vivo experiments in SjD murine models
-Performs spectral flow cytometry, panel design, and data analysis
-Performs standard molecular and cellular biology techniques
-Manages transgenic and knockout mouse colonies
-Collaborates on multiomics (scRNAseq, spatial transcriptomics); independent analysis preferred
-Supports biospecimen processing and protocol development
-Prepares manuscripts and grant applications
-Mentors trainees and personnel

Physical Effort

• Must be able to sit or stand for prolonged periods of time at a laboratory bench or workstation

• Must be able to use a PC or laptop for extended periods for data analysis and reporting

• Must be able to perform repetitive hand and wrist movements associated with pipetting and laboratory bench work

• Must be able to lift and carry laboratory supplies and equipment weighing up to 25 pounds

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Senior Research Scientist

Job Family: Research

Job Sub Family: Research Science

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Professional Doctorate Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 7

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: No

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: On-Campus: Teams that work on campus, in an office, or in a lab.

Hiring Range: To be determined based on qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: Yes

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume

Optional Documents: Not Applicable