Chicago, IL

Research Scientist II or III - Spasticity Research

The Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, a Northwestern University affiliated Rehabilitation Research Hospital, seeks to recruit a research scientist to work on topics related to spasticity.

Spasticity is a common consequence of upper motor neuron lesion such as stroke, spinal cord injury and cerebral palsy. All are fairly common neurologic disorders requiring long-term rehabilitation, and it are a major clinical and research focus of our hospital. Research topics may address a range of themes related to mechanisms, pathophysiology, impairment quantification, or treatment. Methods to be used may range from clinical neurophysiology, electrical recording or stimulation techniques, brain mapping, motion analysis or measurements of muscle reflex, mechanical or material properties.

Research Scientist will use this fundamental knowledge for translational research in humans with and without lesions to the central nervous system. It is anticipated that the successful applicant will form strong partnerships with the Northwestern Departments of Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Therapy & Human Movement Science, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Physiology.

The Research Scientist will demonstrate SRALab Core Attributes: Communication, Accountability, Flexibility/Adaptability, Judgment/Problem Solving, Customer Service, and RIC Values (Hope, Compassion, Discovery, Collaboration, & Commitment to Excellence) while fulfilling job duties.

Research labs are located on or adjacent to clinical floors in our new hospital, providing ready access to stroke survivors admitted for early rehabilitation, or returning for continuing outpatient care.

The scientist position can be awarded at any rank (research scientist II, III or IV), ranks roughly equivalent to an assistant, associate or full professor at Northwestern University. A strong history of publication in high-quality journals and a history of independent grant support are strongly preferred.

Salary levels are highly competitive and will vary according to appointment rank. Substantial startup packages are available.

Principal Responsibilities:

  1. Develops and submits research proposals and grant applications to secure external research funding fromagencies such as the NIH, VA, NIDILRR, DoD, NSF and private foundations.
  2. Ensures that scientific and regulatory milestones of specific projects are met.
  3. Publishes original studies in refereed journals that advance our understanding of motor control, and translation science linked to neurologic illness.
  4. Demonstrates leadership activity in professional organizations such as the Society for Neuroscience, the International Society forSociety for Neuroscience, Neural Control of Movement, Progress in Motor Control, etc.

Contributes to the educational of highly qualified personnel including graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, medical students, and residents.

  1. Knowledge of measurement and statistics principles acquired through a Ph.D. in a scientific discipline from an accredited school and successful completion of a postdoctoral fellowship.
  2. Minimum 2 years of related experience with a high level of proficiency and knowledge in measurement and statistics.
  3. Requires expert knowledge of scientific principles and concepts with a high level of analytical ability to design and conduct research projects.
  4. Demonstrated success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought.
  5. Uses professional concepts and the institute's policies and procedures to solve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways. Works on problems of diverse scope in which analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors.
  6. Requires a high level of proficiency in writing to prepare grant proposals, research reports and other publications, and explain complex results to a lay audience.
  7. Exercises judgment within generally defined practices and policies in selecting methods and techniques for obtaining solutions.
  8. Interpersonal skills needed in order to communicate effectively with other staff members, fellow researchers, and the like.
  9. Normally receives no instructions on routine work, general instructions on new assignments.


About Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is the global leader in physical medicine and rehabilitation for adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions. By joining our team, you will be part of our life-changing Mission and Vision. You’ll work in a truly inclusive environment where diversity and equity are championed through words and actions. You’ll contribute to an innovative culture that is second to none, one that embraces curiosity, discovery and compassion. You’ll play a role in something that’s never been done before as we integrate science and clinical care to help patients achieve better, faster outcomes — as we Advance Human Ability, together.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified.

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.



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