Entry Level Behavioral Data Scientist Jobs in Jackson, MS

The Raucher Laboratory at the University of Mississippi Medical Center is seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral fellow to join a newly funded five-year NIH/NINDS R01 project focused on the translational development of a small-molecule therapy for Huntington’s disease.

Our lead compound, is a brain-penetrant small molecule that targets mutant huntingtin. Preliminary studies indicate that drug reduces mutant huntingtin levels, induces neuronal autophagy, and improves motor function in mouse models of Huntington’s disease.

This project will evaluate the therapeutic efficacy, mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, oral bioavailability, and safety of drug and optimized small-molecule candidates.

Research Responsibilities

The postdoctoral fellow will participate in several areas of the project, including:

• Evaluating therapeutic efficacy in YAC128 and Q175FDN mouse models of Huntington’s disease
• Conducting behavioral studies, including rotarod, open-field, grip-strength, and related neurological assessments
• Administering compounds and collecting blood, brain, and peripheral tissue samples
• Performing histology, immunohistochemistry, stereology, biochemical assays, and molecular analyses
• Investigating treatment-responsive pathways using RNA sequencing, single-nucleus RNA sequencing, and spatial gene-expression analyses
• Supporting pharmacokinetic, toxicity, formulation, and oral-bioavailability studies
• Analyzing and interpreting experimental data
• Preparing manuscripts, presentations, and grant-related reports
• Presenting findings at national and international scientific meetings
• Working collaboratively with investigators in neuroscience, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, behavioral science, mass spectrometry, and genomics

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent degree in neuroscience, pharmacology, molecular or cellular biology, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, or a related discipline
• Strong research experience with laboratory animals, particularly mouse models
• Experience with molecular, cellular, biochemical, or histological techniques
• Ability to design experiments, analyze data, and maintain accurate research records
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Strong motivation to contribute to translational Huntington’s disease research

Preferred Experience

Experience in one or more of the following areas would be particularly valuable:

• Huntington’s disease or other neurodegenerative disorders
• Mouse behavioral testing
• Oral gavage, intraperitoneal injections, and blood collection
• Brain tissue collection and neuropathological analysis
• Immunohistochemistry, histology, or stereology
• Pharmacokinetics, drug formulation, or preclinical drug development
• RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, bioinformatics, or related omics approaches

The Opportunity

This position provides an opportunity to join a multidisciplinary, high-impact project with clear translational goals. The successful candidate will receive training in neurodegeneration, drug development, in vivo pharmacology, behavioral neuroscience, and advanced molecular and genomic approaches.

The fellow will have strong opportunities for publications, scientific presentations, professional development, mentorship, and increasing scientific independence.

The position is available immediately. Salary and benefits will be based on qualifications, experience, and UMMC policies. Applications will be reviewed immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

Applicants should submit:

• Curriculum vitae
• Brief cover letter describing research experience and interest in the position
• Contact information for three professional references

Questions about the position may be directed to:

Drazen Raucher, Ph.D.

Professor

University of Mississippi Medical Center

draucher@umc.edu

• Supported by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, NIH R01NS150332.