Research Area Specialist Lead

Job Summary

The Lifshitz Lab within the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation seeks an individual with unparalleled knowledge, expertise, and skill to support the translational research lab. The Research Area Specialist Lead is a highly self-motivated and resourceful individual responsible for varied research projects within the team. Under the direction and guidance of the Principal Investigator, he/she will develop, design, conduct, analyze, and report on more than one research project. However, the key aspect of the position is independent leadership and operation of a specialized area working with technology, research animals, collaborators, and knowledge-base communities. Notably, the individual will lead the development and operations of a core research service with regard to live microscopy to address novel questions in neuroscience. The individual is essential and key personnel on the research team. The characteristic duties and responsibilities of this position may evolve over time to match changing needs and priorities, particularly with regard to motivating, training, and mentoring other lab members.

Responsibilities*

• Responsible for operation of a specialized area with one or more faculty members or managers within the Lifshitz lab within the PM&R Department. Operates with considerable latitude in unreviewed actions or decisions. Acts as liaison with other departments, divisions, and organizations to promote collaboration and adoption of technologies and expertise.
• Designs, develops, and conducts one or more large and complex research projects according to plan; reviews progress, evaluates results, and provides written and oral reports. 30%
• Independently reads the literature, engages in subject matter forums, and leads work groups. Formulates research methods and suggests options for improving quality; identifies potential problems, recommends and implements solutions. 25%
• Attend seminars and conferences, with active participation in questions and discussions. Train and supervise exempt and non-exempt research and support personnel. 20%
• Consults with users to refine or adapt methodologies to fit research requirements; collaborates in development of new techniques and instruments. 15%
• Researches and recommends reagents, supplies, and equipment to improve workflow. 5%
• Assist training and managing regulatory procedures and ensure compliance across projects. 5%
  
  
  

Required Qualifications*

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Acknowledged expertise with preclinical TBI models, as demonstrated by a list of active users.
• Experience working with rodents, including husbandry, behavior, and surgery, including small vein injections and delicate cranial surgery.
• Experience building, maintaining, and repairing research equipment.
• Demonstrable expertise in automating laboratory processes for high throughput, including programming, workflow, and study design solutions.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques. Experience with data processing, presentation and storytelling.
• Experience supervising/training others.
• Proven ability to make independent decisions as guided by broad review of the literature.
• The ability to work as part of team or independently.
  
  
  

Lead : At least 6 years work experience in vivo neural injury research.

Senior: At least 5 years work experience in vivo neural injury research.

Desired Qualifications*

• At least 10 years work experience in with preclinical TBI models.
• Experience modifying preclinical models to meet the needs to research objectives.
• Experience with in vivo microscopy imaging, including implanting cranial windows, GRIN lenses, and canula for acute and chronic imaging. Experience with CAD design and 3D printing.
• Experience using Bonsai-Rx for acquiring real-time, multi-modal data.
• Experience coding in Visual Studio. Mastery level coding in MATLAB for image processing and data analysis.
• Experience with Adobe Illustrator to make diagrams and figures.
• Experience with 3D modeling and animation to visualize scientific concepts and data.
• Track record of actively participating in scientific discussions, seminars, and conferences.
• Key or named personnel on multiple extramural federal awards.
  
  
  

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Underfill Statement

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.

Additional Information

This is a two year term-limited position with an extension possible. At the end of the stated term, your appointment will terminate, and you will not be eligible for Reduction-in-Force (RIF) benefits. This term-limited appointment does not create a contract or guarantee of employment for any period of time as you will remain subject to disciplinary or other performance measures, up to and including termination, at the will of the University in accordance with existing University policy and standards for employee performance and conduct.

Background Screening

Michigan Medicine conducts background screening and pre-employment drug testing on job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent job offer and may use a third party administrator to conduct background screenings. Background screenings are performed in compliance with the Fair Credit Report Act. Pre-employment drug testing applies to all selected candidates, including new or additional faculty and staff appointments, as well as transfers from other U-M campuses.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.