Research Scientist (Neuropathologist)

POSITION DESCRIPTION: The New York State Institute for Basic Research in Developmental Disabilities (IBR) seeks a Neuropathologist (MD) to join and ultimately supervise a team of scientists in our Alzheimer’s Disease/Autism research area, our Morphology Laboratory and our Brain and Tissue Bank. Applicants should have a doctoral degree (e.g. MD, PhD, DVM, etc.) in a relevant scientific discipline with evidence of an ability to obtain independent funding to grow and sustain their research program. In this position, the incumbent will engage in stereological study of neurodegeneration and neuronal loss in the entorhinal cortex and hippocampal formation in the brain, complete neuropathological staging and focus on developmental abnormalities in the corpus collosum of brains. Responsibilities will also include continuing to maintain the current NYS IBR Brain and Tissue Bank’s collection of frozen and formalin fixed brain tissue and overseeing its expansion.

• Microscopy Services including Confocal, Light Sheet and Electron microscopy;
• Mass Spectrometry;
• Laboratory Animal Resource Center
• Editorial/Grant Writing Services and Statistical Analysis.

Current research underway in this department includes projects designed to characterize:

1. The dynamics of multi-regional neurodegeneration and neuronal loss in Down syndrome;
2. Statistical modeling of differences between type, topography, severity and dynamics of neurodegeneration and neuronal loss in Trisomy 21 and Down syndrome with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease;
3. Comparison of unbiased stereological estimates of neuropathological changes in developmental defects of brain glymphatic system in individuals with Down syndrome;
4. Detection of developmental abnormalities of serotonergic system and brain neurotransmitter systems in Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Department scientists utilize Microbrightfield image analyzers with Stereoinvestigators and Neurolucida and work with colleagues trained in 3-D reconstruction as well as in matching clinical MRI with postmortem 3-D imaging of neuronal networks and vascular systems.

IBR is the research arm of the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). OPWDD is responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), including intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, rare genetic syndromes, and other neurological impairments.

NYS OPWDD IBR provides a professional setting in a world-renowned research facility located on Staten Island, NY, on a wooded, suburban campus with free off-street parking. The compensation package includes New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) insurance, a generous sick leave and vacation package, vesting in the NYS pension fund, and a deferred compensation plan. NYS Public Employees Federation (PEF) union benefits include tuition reimbursement and dental and optical coverage. Attendance at and participation in professional meetings and conferences is encouraged and financially supported, and publication fees in professional journals are supported through the agency budget. Telecommuting work plan is negotiable.

We invite qualified and enthusiastic candidates to apply for this exciting opportunity to engage in meaningful work and to make significant contributions to our medical and scientific endeavors to fulfill our mission of helping individuals with IDD live healthier lives. IBR offers an exciting and collaborative work environment with colleagues whose research interests span all areas related to Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities.

Minimum Qualifications

Possession of a doctoral degree AND (8) years of experience in the field of Neuropathology. Substitutions: Master's Degree in an appropriate field may substitute for one year of experience and a Ph. D in an appropriate field may substitute for an additional year of experience.

Preferred Skills

• Proficient in using statistical software (e.g., STATA, SPSS, R) for analyzing developmental data.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to communicate effectively with families and children.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Proficient in writing research papers, grant proposals, and creating presentations for academic and non-academic audiences.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills for collaborating with other healthcare professionals, educators, and research teams.

Additional Requirements

• Clear background check as required by state law.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including occasional evenings or weekends as needed.
• Compliance with any additional state-specific licensing or certification requirements.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for travel to home visits or community-based services.

Please Note: If you are currently a New York State employee serving in a permanent competitive qualifying title and eligible for a transfer via Section 70.1 of the Civil Service Law, you may be appointed to this title as a permanent competitive employee.