Research Instructor

The Department of Biomedical Sciences at School of Graduate Studies, Meharry Medical College is seeking a highly motivated Non-Tenure Track Instructor to contribute to neuroprotective research in retinal diseases and actively participate in teaching activities. The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in neuroscience with a strong interest in retinal diseases.

The instructor will work closely with the Principal Investigator (PI) to design and execute experiments, mentor students and postdoctoral fellows, and contribute to manuscript writing and grant applications. The instructor will also collaborate with the PI in developing independent research projects and securing extramural funding. Additionally, the candidate will play an active role in teaching and curriculum development.

The successful candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of postdoctoral experience and conduct independent research that aligns with the department's mission. Faculty will additionally be involved in recruiting, mentoring, and supervising high-caliber students and postdoctoral fellows in collaboration with department and school leadership. Applicants should have a proven track record of scientific leadership and collaboration, and a commitment to advancing the department as a leading research unit on local, national and international platforms. This includes securing extramural grant funding, achieving academic excellence, producing high-impact publications, generating intellectual property, and promoting inclusivity to support the research, education, and service missions of the School of Graduate Studies and Meharry Medical College.

Applicants must submit a curriculum vitae, a letter of intent that includes a research, mentoring and teaching statement, and contact information for three referees.

Rank and salary will be competitive and commensurate with training and experience.

Research Lab Leadership

• Design and conduct research projects focused on neuroprotective strategies for retinal diseases.

• Apply a diverse range of scientific research principles, protocols, and methodologies.

• Collaborate with the PI and research team on experimental design, data analysis, and manuscript preparation.

• Lead and mentor graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and medical students in the laboratory.

• Prepare and submit grant proposals to secure funding for research projects.

• Perform laboratory bench work, including molecular biology, neuronal cultures, and in vivo studies.

• Present research findings at local, national, and international scientific conferences 75%

Teaching & Mentorship Responsibilities

• Assist in teaching undergraduate, graduate, and medical students in neuroscience and biomedical research-related courses.

• Develop and deliver lectures, laboratory sessions, and interactive learning modules.

• Supervise and mentor students participating in short- and long-term research projects.

• Serve as an academic advisor for students interested in neuroscience and vision research.

• Strong commitment to student mentorship, academic advising, and career development.

• Experience in curriculum development and assessment is a plus.

20%

Other Duties:

• Provide technical leadership and consultation to professional colleagues and collaborators.

• Develop methodologies for scientific research projects and clinical applications.

• Fulfill additional responsibilities as assigned by the department or PI.

5%

Total:

100%

General Knowledge, Technical Skills and Abilities:

• Expertise in molecular biology, neuroscience, and neuronal culture techniques.

• Proficiency in data analysis, scientific modeling, and statistical software.

• Knowledge of ophthalmology, retinal biology, and neurodegenerative diseases.

• Experience with laboratory instrumentation and biohazard safety protocols.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work in a multidisciplinary team.

• Demonstrated ability to develop manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications.

• Capacity to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and work independently.

• Commitment to Meharry values, excellent interpersonal and communications skills, and be a strong team player.

Education and Experience:

• Must have a Doctoral Degree (Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., Pharm.D., Ed.D., D.O., Dr.P.H. or other equivalent academic doctoral degree) and a record of scholarship commensurate with appointment as Assistant/ Associate Professor.

• Five or more years of postdoctoral fellowship experience in biomedical research with emphasis on cardiometabolic diseases, neuroscience and/or cancer.

Environmental Conditions and Physical Demands

• Usual office environment

• Manual dexterity

• Visual and auditory acuity

• Able to sit, stand or walk for extended periods of time

Interested candidates should submit the following:

1. Cover letter detailing research interests and teaching philosophy.

2. Curriculum Vitae (CV).

3. List of references (minimum of three).

4. Sample publications (optional).

JR101126