Job Description

The laboratories of Casey Gifford and Jesse Engreitz at Stanford University are seeking a Research Scientist (Life Science Research Professional 3) to lead a project on understanding the genetic basis of congenital heart defects. This project focuses on human and mouse genetics, genome editing, and genomics.

Project Overview: The project aims to map the complex regulatory wiring that connects DNA regulatory elements in the human genome with genes in thousands of cell types. By studying enhancers that contain disease variants affecting congenital heart defects, the research will contribute to uncovering biological mechanisms and guiding diagnosis and treatment for children with heart disease.

We are looking for creative and passionate individuals from all career stages who have experience in mouse genetics, molecular biology, genomics, and cellular assay development. Other desired qualifications include curiosity, creativity in problem-solving, strong interpersonal and collaboration skills, excellent communication abilities, adaptability, and a passion for science and finding new medicines to benefit patients.

Duties Include:

• Make fundamental discoveries about gene regulation and the genetics of cardiovascular disease.
• Design and execute scientific projects in collaboration with the principal investigator and other lab members.
• Study enhancers and genes in human cells and mouse models using various strategies.
• Evaluate and recommend new emerging technologies, approaches, and problems.
• Train and collaborate with other lab members in experimental techniques, scientific design, and other skills.
• Lead independent projects and collaborate with a team of experimentalists and computational biologists.
• Create scientifically rigorous visualizations, communications, and presentations of results.
• Contribute to the generation of protocols, publications, and intellectual property.

Desired Qualifications:

• Ph.D. in Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Genetics, Bioengineering, Developmental Biology, or related life science field is preferred. Highly motivated candidates of all levels are encouraged to apply.
• Expertise in mouse genetics, with experience in studying embryonic or heart development as a plus.
• Experience in technology development, molecular biology, genomics, and cellular assay development.
• Experience with quantitative data analysis.
• Experience with CRISPR targeting ES/iPS cells or single-cell RNA-seq as a plus.
• Curiosity in research and creativity in problem-solving.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication abilities.
• Ability to adapt to and effectively manage changes in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• A passion for science and a sense of urgency to find new medicines to benefit patients.

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in a related scientific field and four years of relevant work experience; OR
• Master's degree in a related scientific field and two years of relevant experience; OR
• PhD in a related science field.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Comprehensive understanding of scientific principles.
• Expert level knowledge and skills in the field of science related to the research project.
• General computer skills and experience with databases and scientific applications.
• Strong analytical skills and excellent judgment.
• Ability to work under deadlines with general guidance.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Developing project management skills.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to perform various physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, and lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Correctable vision to perform job duties.
• Ability to work with hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases.
• Possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens.
• Occasional work with animals for teaching and research.

Working Conditions:

• May require working in close proximity to bloodborne pathogens.
• May require work in an environment where animals are used for teaching and research.
• Position may at times require working with hazardous materials and/or infectious diseases.
• Employee must use personal protective equipment as needed.
• May require extended or unusual work hours based on research requirements and business needs.

Stanford University offers a competitive salary range for this position, and the final pay will be determined based on various factors including qualifications and market rates.

As an organization that receives federal funding, Stanford University has a COVID-19 vaccination requirement for all employees. To learn more about COVID-19 policies and guidelines for Stanford University Staff, please visit their website.

You can apply for this position through the Stanford web portal and send your CV and cover letter directly to Prof. Casey Gifford (caseygifford@stanford.edu) and Prof. Jesse Engreitz (engreitz@stanford.edu).