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Baylor College of Medicine

Staff Scientist

Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States, 77246

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Direct message the job poster from Baylor College of Medicine

Principal Investigator at Baylor College of Medicine; Senior Consultant at AstraZeneca The Dhindsa Lab studies the molecular mechanisms of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases using human induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) models. We seek an experienced Staff Scientist to lead the lab's core iPSC and genome engineering operations.

This individual will be primarily responsible for designing and executing CRISPR/Cas9 editing strategies to generate novel disease-relevant iPSC lines. This role also involves optimizing and standardizing complex differentiation protocols to create a range of neural cell types in both 2D monolayer cultures and 3D brain organoids. The ideal candidate will be a technical expert who can independently manage projects, troubleshoot complex experiments, and train junior members of the team.

Responsibilities

Lead mechanistic studies of human iPSC models of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disordrs

Execute scientific projects together with PI and other lab members

Design, execute, and validate CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing experiments (e.g., knock-outs, knock-ins, single-nucleotide variants) in human iPSCs.

Manage the generation and full characterization of new iPSC lines, including expansion, quality control, karyotyping, and cryopreservation.

Develop, optimize, and document robust protocols for the differentiation of iPSCs into various neural lineages (e.g., neurons, astrocytes, microglia) and 3D brain organoids.

Perform advanced cellular and molecular analysis (immunocytochemistry, confocal microscopy, qPCR, Western blot) to validate gene edits and characterize differentiated cell types.

Maintain highly detailed and accurate records of all experimental procedures and results in an electronic lab notebook.

Analyze and interpret data, prepare figures, and present findings clearly to the Principal Investigator and lab group.

Train and mentor graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, and research technicians in advanced stem cell culture and genome editing techniques.

Conduct literature searches to identify and implement new technologies and protocols relevant to the lab's research goals.

Assist with lab management duties, including reagent ordering, stock maintenance, and ensuring protocol compliance.

Assist in grant writing

Performs other job related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education Required: Doctoral Degree. Experience may not be substituted in lieu of degree.

Experience Required: Three years of post doctoral research experience.

Certification/Licenses/Registration: None Required.

Preferred qualifications

Extensive hands-on experience with human iPSC culture, maintenance, and quality control.

Demonstrated expertise in designing and successfully executing CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing projects in iPSCs.

Proven track record in developing and troubleshooting protocols for neural differentiation and/or 3D organoid culture.

Proficiency in standard molecular biology techniques (cloning, PCR, qPCR) and cellular analysis (immunofluorescence, confocal microscopy, flow cytometry).

Strong analytical skills and experience with relevant data analysis software (e.g., ImageJ, GraphPad Prism).

Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

Prior experience supervising or training junior research staff.

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