Scientist, Neurobiology (In Vivo/Ex Vivo)

The Neurobiology group within the Research and Development organization at our Waltham site is seeking an experienced neurobiologist to support discovery neuroscience research through the application of both in vivo and ex vivo experimental approaches. The successful candidate will design and execute in vivo studies and apply biochemical, molecular, and histology-based techniques including Western blotting, plate-based immunoassays, qPCR, tissue dissection, and immunohistochemistry to characterize disease biology, assess pharmacodynamic biomarkers, and evaluate the effects of novel therapeutic candidates. The candidate is expected to contribute across a wide range of discovery programs, applying and developing in vivo/ex vivo approaches to address diverse scientific questions. 

Working in a highly collaborative environment, the candidate will partner with cross-functional teams to advance target validation, mechanistic understanding, and translational biomarker strategies that support neuroscience drug discovery programs. These efforts will directly contribute to the development of innovative therapeutics for neuropsychiatric, neurological, neurodegenerative and movement disorders.

Responsibilities

Key Duties

• Explore, develop, and independently design ex vivo assays that bridge in vitro findings with in vivo neuropharmacology
• Perform thorough analysis of collected data, generate clear summaries and interpretations of results, and effectively communicate findings to audiences at multiple levels across the organization
• Execute in vivo experiments, including compound administration, sample collection, and tissue processing
• Contribute to target identification, engagement, and validation strategies across a broad range of CNS disorders
   

Technical Skills

• Expertise in ex vivo biochemical and molecular assays, including Western blotting, plate-based immunoassays (e.g. ELISA, MSD), qPCR, and related biomarker assays
• Strong knowledge of neuroanatomy, with hands-on experience in tissue microdissection, perfusion, histological tissue processing and sectioning, and immunohistochemistry
• Experience with brightfield, fluorescence, confocal, and digital microscopy, including familiarity with quantitative image analysis using tools such as ImageJ/Fiji, QuPath, or HALO 
• Proficiency in rodent handling and in vivo procedures, including compound administration by multiple routes, blood and tissue collection
• Experience designing/performing studies using rodent behavioral models is a plus
   

Personal Skills

• Must work well in a matrixed team environment and have excellent interpersonal skills 
• Well-organized and able to multi-task across diverse projects
• Outstanding personal initiative with the ability to take the lead, influence, and motivate others
• Strong communication skills and ability to distill and present complex datasets into meaningful decision-making information 

Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in neuroscience, neurobiology, or related discipline, a MS degree with 5+ years of experience, or a BS degree with 10+ years of experience is required

• Strong background knowledge in movement, neuropsychiatric, or neurological disorders

• Experience in a biotechnology/pharmaceutical setting is strongly preferred but not required

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $116,000 to $137,000. In addition, this position is eligible for an annual performance pay bonus. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, training, knowledge, and experience. Alkermes offers a competitive benefits package. Additional details can be found on our careers website: www.alkermes.com/careers#working-here

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