Research Scientist, Optics, Levi Lab

Job Summary The Levi laboratory has an opening for a Research Scientist . The Levi lab’s mission is to improve the lives of people living with skin and musculoskeletal injuries and diseases through rigorous science and compassion. Current projects involve optical imaging of skin and burn wounds to assess tissue viability in pig models and human patients using near‑infrared, short‑wave infrared, and visible spectrum imaging. The position requires a minimum commitment of two years. The Research Scientist will support bench and animal work related to skin injury, including image acquisition from pigs and human patients, image analysis, histologic analyses, and integration of data with machine learning and AI algorithms. Laboratory Expectations Routine molecular histologic bench work combined with the use of pig models and analysis of human tissues. Collect and analyze images in NIR and SWIR wavelengths. Downstream processing. Histology, immunofluorescent staining, confocal imaging, flow cytometry, and work with cell cultures, single‑cell and bulk RNA sequencing. Experience and Education Experience with coding and programs such as MATLAB and Python. Ph.D. degree with major coursework in the field of assignment and five (5) years of research experience, including at least two (2) years at the level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. Master’s degree with major coursework in the field of assignment and seven (7) years of research experience, including at least three (3) years at the level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. Bachelor’s degree with major coursework in the field of assignment and nine (9) years of research experience, including at least four (4) years at the level of Senior Research Associate or equivalent. Preferred Experience Proficient in a variety of molecular biology techniques, including histology and immunohistochemistry. Experience with animal research in pigs. Experience with human skin research. Experience with optical imaging. Experience with the histology pipeline from tissue harvest to embedding, sectioning, staining, and confocal microscopy. Excellent written and oral communication and organizational skills. Ability to perform data analysis and interpretation using bioinformatics tools, statistical methods, and relevant software packages. Laboratory Duties Design, build, and maintain optical imaging systems and equipment. Ensure proper calibration and functioning of imaging instruments. Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to optical imaging devices. Develop algorithms and use software tools for image processing and analysis. Implement the histology pipeline from tissue harvest to embedding, sectioning, staining, and confocal microscopy. Design and execute experiments to investigate molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes. Plan and develop standard operating protocols for experimental protocols. Review and analyze research data, and revise techniques or approaches as necessary. Collaborate with industrial, governmental, or other groups to discuss progress or results of research projects. Maintain a respectful and inclusive laboratory environment and a clean, functional workspace. Analyze and interpret experimental data using relevant software and statistical methods. Stay current with advances in molecular biology research and contribute to new methodologies and techniques. Prepare research findings for publication in scientific journals and present results at conferences and meetings, including weekly laboratory meetings and reading/writing clubs. Contribute to grant writing and fundraising efforts to support research activities. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to contribute molecular biology expertise to research projects and initiatives. Assist in the training and supervision of junior laboratory personnel, including technicians, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows. Job Duties Plan, organize, coordinate, direct, and personally participate in assigned scientific or medical research projects. Select or assist in the selection of key research personnel. Determine specific goals or objectives and assign and review work of subordinates. Plan experimental protocols. Review and analyze research data, and revise techniques or approaches as needed. Compile, write, and submit research results to supervisor. Prepare or assist in the preparation of research papers, reports, and abstracts for publication as co‑authors. Design, develop, or adapt equipment used in experiments to obtain desired results. Plan and supervise training of technicians and other personnel regarding laboratory techniques, equipment use, and safety procedures. Collaborate with industrial, governmental, or other groups to discuss progress or results of research projects. Perform other duties as assigned. Equal Opportunity Employer Statement UT Southwestern Medical Center is committed to an educational and working environment that provides equal opportunity to all members of the University community. As an equal opportunity employer, UT Southwestern prohibits unlawful discrimination, including discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, genetic information, citizenship status, or veteran status. Location 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX #J-18808-Ljbffr UT Southwestern Medical Center