Project Scientist - Ajami Lab - Department of Neurology

About the role

The Ajami Lab at Cedars-Sinai is establishing a new research program focusing on immune mechanisms of hearing loss. The lab has identified three molecularly distinct macrophage populations in the cochlea and developed unique genetic mouse models to test causal roles of immune cells in sensory system pathology.

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.
• Aids in lab experiments.
• Analyzes, interprets, summarizes and compiles data.
• Might 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.

Department-Specific Responsibilities

• Develops and executes in vivo studies using genetic mouse models.
• Builds and establishes auditory phenotyping platforms (ABR, DPOAE, noise exposure systems) from the ground up.
• Integrates auditory biology with immunological and single-cell approaches.
• Mentors trainees and drives high-impact publications.

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree, required.
• PhD degree in Audiology, Auditory Neuroscience, Physiology, or closely related field.
• Completion of postdoctoral scholar training as applicable.
• Strong expertise in auditory systems and hearing assessment (ABR, DPOAE, cochlear physiology) is critical for this role.
• Demonstrated experience setting up or running auditory phenotyping platforms is highly desirable.
• Strong track record of independent research and publication.
• Immunology experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated technical proficiency.