Principal Scientist, Epilepsy Research

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Neuroscience, Pharmacology, Physiology, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 8 years of post-doctoral research experience, with a demonstrated track record in epilepsy or seizure biology.
• Expert-level proficiency in in vivo electrophysiology, including EEG recording and analysis in rodent seizure models.
• Expert-level proficiency in brain slice preparation and patch-clamp or field potential electrophysiology.
• Extensive hands-on experience with rodent models of epilepsy and associated surgical, behavioral, and data analysis workflows.
• Direct experience contributing to preclinical therapeutic development programs, including target validation and compound profiling.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals relevant to epilepsy, ion channel biology, or CNS pharmacology.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and interpret complex experiments and communicate findings clearly.
• Pay Range: $136,461 - $212,147, salary is determined by experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with genetic mouse models of epilepsy (e.g., Dravet syndrome, KCNQ2, CDKL5).
• Familiarity with advanced imaging modalities (e.g., calcium imaging, optogenetics) in the context of seizure research.
• Experience with translational biomarker development or clinical EEG interpretation.
• Prior experience in a biotech, pharma, or translational research environment.
• Familiarity with regulatory expectations for preclinical CNS packages (FDA/EMA guidelines).
• Experience with gene therapy or RNA-based therapeutic modalities.
• Skills & Competencies
• Scientific rigor and meticulous attention to reproducibility and data quality.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills; proficiency with electrophysiology analysis software (e.g., Clampfit, Spike2, custom MATLAB/Python pipelines).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present complex data to cross-functional stakeholders.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively across disciplines and organizational boundaries.
• Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
• Demonstrated leadership ability, including mentoring junior scientists and driving team-level deliverables.
• 8 years required/ 10 years preferred

Skills & Competencies

What We Offer

• A senior, high-visibility role at the forefront of epilepsy research and drug discovery.
• Significant scientific autonomy and the opportunity to shape the direction of a core research program.
• A collaborative, mission-driven culture with access to state-of-the-art research infrastructure.
• Competitive compensation package including base salary, bonus, and equity.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and generous PTO.
• Support for conference attendance, publications, and continued professional development.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• A Ph.D. or equivalent degree in a relevant scientific field
• Extensive experience (typically 8+ years) in scientific research, preferably in a related industry or academic setting.
• Proven track record of leading successful research projects, with a strong publication record and demonstrated expertise in a specialized area.
• Proficiency in experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and effectively manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with regulatory guidelines and compliance requirements relevant to the industry.
• Education: Doctorate required/preferred
• Experience: 8 years required/ 10 years preferred
• Pay Range: $136,461 - $212,147, salary is determined by experience

About JAX: