Working/Functional Title
Assistant/Associate/Full Professor Tenure System
Position Summary
The Department of Translational Neuroscience at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine in Grand Rapids is seeking a tenure-track/tenured faculty member at the Assistant, Associate, or Professor level to join our mission of combating neurodegenerative diseases. We seek a researcher and educator passionate about investigating the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases with a specific interest in variance among different populations and how such differences influence disease progression and incidence. Our programmatic goal is to unravel the complex interplay between contextual and biological factors to ensure that research remains applicable to all populations and that biological and behavioral phenotypes are integrated into individual- and community-centered health solutions.
As a high-impact catalyst for bidirectional research, TransNeuro offers a dynamic ecosystem that spans the continuum from cellular mechanisms to population health. While our broader portfolio investigates the fundamental causes and novel therapeutics for a wide range of neurodegenerative disorders, a cornerstone of our identity is a commitment to generating knowledge that can guide effective health solutions for individuals and communities.
Beyond a robust portfolio of funded research programs, our faculty lead projects within large NIH-funded centers, including the Michigan Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center and the Michigan Center for Contextual Factors in Alzheimer’s Disease, which are specifically designed to identify differences and reduce or eliminate disparities in dementia. By integrating cutting-edge bench science with robust community infrastructure, such as a dedicated Community Partners Board and a broad directory of research volunteers, we endeavor to pioneer the use of biomarkers and contextual data to ensure detection, diagnosis, and treatment for all. It would be highly desirable to have the successful applicant develop a research program at the intersection of contextual factors and biological vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases. The exact area of research within this mission area is dependent upon the skills and discipline expertise of the applicant.
Position Responsibilities and Expectations:
Research
1. Conduct impactful research on health disparities in neurodegenerative diseases, with a focus on understanding the underlying causes and mechanisms contributing to differential disease incidence, progression, and outcomes across different populations.
2. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design and implement studies that explore the complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and social determinants of cognitive decline and neurological function.
3. Utilize advanced research methods, such as neuropsychological assessment techniques, biomarker assessments, epidemiological, genetic, -omics, and/or neuroimaging techniques, to unravel the complex interplay between genetics, environmental factors, and social determinants of health on cognitive functioning and brain changes within diverse populations.
4. Analyze and interpret research data, and disseminate findings through peer-reviewed publications, presentations at national and international conferences, and community outreach.
5. Collaborate with community stakeholders to gather insights and co-create research strategies.
6. Understand the importance of community engaged research, ethical considerations, and the potential benefits and challenges.
Grant Acquisition
1. Develop and submit competitive grant proposals to secure external funding from federal agencies, foundations, and other sources to support research initiatives focused on neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Collaborate with colleagues to develop interdisciplinary grant applications that address multifaceted aspects of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Teaching and Mentorship
1. Contribute to the education and training of graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers through mentorship, supervision, and participation in academic programs.
2. Contribute to courses at the graduate and medical school levels that cover topics related to neurodegenerative diseases, health disparities, and related areas.
3. Provide guidance and support to students and trainees interested in pursuing research in the field of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias disparities.
Service
1. Actively engage in departmental and institutional committees, contributing to the academic and research community's growth and development.
2. Collaborate with community organizations, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders to raise awareness about Alzheimer's disease and related dementias disparities and potential strategies for addressing them.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship, age, disability or protected veteran status.
Required Degree
Terminal -population health and/or computational biology with an emphasis in health disparities in neurodegenerative diseases
Minimum Requirements
- A Ph.D., M.D./Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as neuroscience, neuropsychology, epidemiology, public health, or a related discipline.
- Expertise in studying neurodegenerative diseases, health disparities, epidemiology, genetics, disease-related biomarkers, neurobiology, or related areas.
- Excellent communication skills, including the ability to effectively teach, mentor, and disseminate research findings to both scientific and lay audiences.
- Evidence of community-engaged research experience, including peer-reviewed publications and presentations at scientific conferences, is desirable and would be considered an additional strength, but is not required.
Desired Qualifications
- Experience in securing research funding through grant applications.
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary research teams and foster a diverse and inclusive research and learning environment.
- Prior teaching experience and evidence of successful mentorship.
- Proficiency in applying quantitative research methods and advance statistical approaches, including the use of AI and machine learning approaches to analyze large datasets.
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of and commitment to research of health disparities, including their causes, implications, and relevance to neurodegenerative diseases.
Required Application Materials
Application Materials:
1. Cover letter detailing research interests and mentoring philosophy.
2. Curriculum vitae, including a list of publications and funding history.
3. Statement of research accomplishments and future research plans (3 page maximum).
4. Contact information for three professional references.
Review of Applications Begins On
03/23/2026
Summary of Health Risks
Exposure to human blood, serum, tissue and other body fluids; and materials covered under Universal Precautions
Remote Work Statement
MSU strives to provide a flexible work environment and this position has been designated as remote-friendly. Remote-friendly means some or all of the duties can be performed remotely as mutual
