Post-Doctoral Scholar - School of Medicine, Neurology

The objective of this post-doctoral fellow position is to provide scientific assistance in a Movement Disorders clinical research laboratory in the Department of Neurology. This position will support the success of grant applications and manuscript publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals through the design and implementation of clinical research protocols, dataset preparation, and data analyses. Such support will help the Principal Investigator secure and maintain external funding which will enhance the stature and funding level of the Department as well as the individual laboratory.

Parkinson disease and dementia with Lewy bodies are progressive neurodegenerative diseases associated with significant disability. Neuropsychiatric symptoms including cognitive impairment are significant contributors to the disability associated with these diseases. Our research is focused on improving the understanding and treatment of neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with Lewy body diseases. We aim to accomplish this by employing EEG and MRI in our research protocols and analysis of data collected locally as well as part of larger multi-center efforts.

We are currently seeking a post-doctoral fellow to assist in the development and execution of human-subject based research studies. The candidate must be detail-oriented, organized, reliable, and committed to pursuing scientific excellence through research. This position requires an independent, organized, and self-motivated individual with robust problem-solving skills. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and a strong work ethic are essential.  Candidates may also have previous experience in bench research and an ability to partner with our basic science colleagues in translational projects. 

Core Responsibilities:

• Contribute to the operation of the laboratory by serving as a clinical rater for participants enrolled in clinical trials and observational research studies
• Support the Movement Disorders clinical research laboratory by assisting in the design and implementation of clinical research protocols, preparation and management of research datasets, and performance of statistical analyses
• Lead the preparation and submission of scientific manuscripts arising from laboratory projects, including preparation of results, manuscript drafting and revision, coordination with co-authors, and submission to peer-reviewed journals
• Contribute to applications for intramural and extramural funding that support the continued growth of the laboratory

Minimum Hiring Standards:

• Candidates must have a PhD in Neurobiology, Biology, Biochemistry or health-related field; or an MD or MD-equivalent degree.
• Expertise in statistical software programs such as SPSS or SAS.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Be fluent in spoken and written English.
• Must have excellent communication skills and a demonstrated ability to work professionally and efficiently with students, faculty, and patients / clinical research participants.
• Demonstrated experience working in and fostering an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from various backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Strong scientific writing skills are preferred.
• It is preferred that prior scientific work will have been presented in scientific publications and presentations at national and international conferences.
• The post-doctoral position is available for 1 year, with potential for extension beyond this period contingent upon progress and available funding.
• This position will follow the guidelines for compensation as recommended by the National Institutes of Health.

Salary Range: Commensurate with NIH

FLSA Exemption Status: Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: Yes

ORP Eligible: Yes

Flexible Work Arrangement: Hybrid

Benefits: All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

Contact Information: 
Contact Name: Kelly Barnes
Contact Email: Kelly.Barnes@vcuhealth.org