Principal Research Scientist

Job Description

The Department of Biology has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Scientist Principal to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to Professor, the Research Scientist Principal is responsible for contributing to the research and training mission of the Department of Biology. Tasks include developing a research program (grant proposal writing: determining research questions and hypotheses; overseeing and directing data acquisition, analyses, and interpretation) and producing presentations and peer-review publications. This position will also mentor and supervise students in research activities through independent research and the creation of a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) program.

This position will also further connect with, leverage and augment the highly effective outreach and educational resources at the Burke Museum and provide case study materials for the study of evolution for K-12 students and educators. Additional tasks include leading symposia at national and international conferences, serving as peer reviewer of technical publications and funding agencies, and networking nationally and internationally. This position fits into the Department of Biology’s goals of advancing research, mentoring of students, and disseminating research to general audiences. 

This position will balance multiple responsibilities including leading a research program, mentoring of students in research activities, and securing research funding. 

This position advances cutting-edge research and education in the biological sciences by generating new knowledge about the major processes that contribute to the diversity of life, mentoring of students in preparation for STEM fields, broadening participation of underrepresented groups in academic research, and engaging with the community through outreach. This position will serve at minimum 10 undergraduate students per academic year through direct mentorship, and many more through outreach events and guest lectures.

This position is expected to work 30 hrs/week.

Key Responsibilities

Research and Scholarly Activity (60%)

• Conduct original research in vertebrate biology; apply extensive and diversified knowledge of scientific research and practices in vertebrate biology
• Develop and maintain an externally funded research program (grant proposal writing: determining research questions and hypotheses; overseeing and directing data acquisition, analyses, and interpretation)
• Publish regularly in high-impact peer-reviewed journals/societies
• Manage technically complex projects and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams 

Education and Mentorship (25%)

• Plans and directs the operation of the Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) program in mammal evolution and diversity
• Provides technical leadership for the CURE program; supervise and mentor undergraduate students in research activities, and mentor graduate students in research activities

Outreach and Community Engagement (5%)

• Promote scientific literacy and public understanding of evolutionary biology through outreach activities at the Burke Museum of Natural History
• Connect with, leverage and augment the highly effective outreach and educational resources at the Burke Museum and provide case study materials for the study of evolution for K-12 students and educators
• Plays a lead role in the identification/acquisition of research funding

Professional Development and Continuing Education (5%)

• Networks nationally and internationally; lead symposia at national and international conferences
• Attend scientific conferences, workshops, and training sessions
• Maintain current knowledge of the field through ongoing scholarly engagement

Service (5%)

• Serve as peer reviewer of technical publications and funding proposals through funding agencies
• Assist with departmental operations as needed

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

• PhD degree in Biology or related fields.

• Six or more years in a related area of research.

• Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Manager.

Additional Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge on the skeletal anatomy, functional morphology, ecology, and evolutionary history of mammals, particularly carnivorans. 

• Extensive experience demonstrating evidence of collecting morphological data using 2D and 3D morphometrics approaches including light structure 3D scanning, CT scanning, photogrammetry, and caliper measurements; conducting phylogenetic comparative analyses including OU modeling, adaptive landscape analyses, and total-evidence phylogenetic reconstruction; and prior publications in carnivoran functional morphology, phylogenetics, and biomechanics

• Extensive experience developing and running a Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) program to engage undergraduate students in research pertaining to mammalian evolution, functional morphology, and biomechanics. 

• Extensive experience working in a natural history museum setting, including working with specimens, curating specimens, and conducting outreach using specimens. 

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$120,948.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$120,948.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

75.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.