Project Scientist - Ajami Lab - Department of Neurology
Job Description
Are you ready to be a part of breakthrough research? Take action now by applying to this great opportunity!
Cedars-Sinai offers scientists unparalleled access to ground breaking technologies, facilities, and resources for conducting research related to an impressive range of diseases and disorders, from cancer, cardiology, and digestive diseases, to genetics, genomics, neurosciences, and women's health.
Dr. Bahareh Ajami invites you to consider this Project Scientist opportunity to join her dynamic team!
About the Team
The Ajami Lab is establishing a new research program at Cedars-Sinai focused on immune mechanisms driving neurodegeneration, with a particular emphasis on ALS and microglial biology.
About the Role
The Project Scientist works independently and in cooperation with the Principal Investigator to accomplish significant contributions to a research or project in any academic field. The incumbent may be an ongoing member of a research team or may be employed for a limited period of time to contribute high-level skills to a specific research program. Project Scientists are not required to carry out independent research or to develop an independent research reputation and do not have teaching responsibilities. Ordinarily, the Project Scientist title will carry out research or creative programs as well as administration of day-to-day lab operations with supervision by a member of the Professorial Series. This position is supported by a newly awarded NIH R01 investigating α5 integrin as a molecular switch regulating microglial and peripheral immune cell transitions in ALS.
The successful candidate will lead projects integrating:
- Mouse models of ALS (e.g., mSOD1, conditional knockouts)
- Human iPSC-derived microglia and macrophage systems
- Single-cell and spatial genomics (CITE-seq, CODEX/PhenoCycler)
- Mechanistic studies of ECM–integrin signaling in neuroinflammation
Primary Duties and Responsibilities:
- May assist in preparation of grant proposals, submissions, publications and presentations, but is not responsible for generating grant funds.
- May serve as PI for certain grants as approved by supervising member of the Professorial Series.
- May participate in publications and presentations as author or co-author.
- May develop, adapt and implement new research techniques and protocols.
- Assists in lab experiments.
- Analyzes, interprets, summarizes and compiles data.
- May lead or train Staff Research Associates and Research Fellows.
- Assists in day-to-day laboratory activities.
- Appointees on an academic trajectory will be expected to commit a portion of their time to developing an independent range of research.
Education, Experience, and Skills:
- Doctorate degree, required. PhD or MD/PhD degree in Immunology, Neuroscience, or closely related field.
- Completion of postdoctoral scholar training as applicable.
- Demonstrated expertise in ALS research (required).
- Strong publication record (first-author papers in relevant fields).
- Experience with iPSC-derived systems.
- Background in integrin biology, ECM signaling, or neuroinflammation.
- Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
Experience with one or more of the following:
- Neurodegeneration models (ALS strongly preferred).
- Myeloid biology / microglia.
- Single-cell or spatial omics.
- In vivo mouse models.
- Demonstrated technical proficiency.
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