Careers in Quality

The University of Missouri School of Medicine
The Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders

  Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders Research Professor

The nationally recognized Thompson Center for Autism & Neurodevelopmental Disorders is expanding its depth and breadth in translational research on autism and related disorders and seeks talented research professors (all ranks available) whose clinical research focuses on autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

What are we working on now?

• Clinical trials
• Epigenetic influences on autism outcomes
• Early infant markers of risk and developmental trajectories
• Eye-tracking and psychophysiology
• Sleep research
• Collaborations with institutions across the nation, including UCSF, UVA, Cornell, WashU, Brown, and KUMC

What are we looking for in our newest faculty?
The University of Missouri has exceptional resources to support clinical research on autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, Laboratory and state-of-the-art neuroimaging facilities, strong research cores, and biomedical informatics are linked to clinical care in a highly integrated campus. Moreover, the Thompson Center is home to a well-established research and training cores from which to launch effectiveness trials, implementation and dissemination research, and other community-oriented patient-centered outcomes research. This opportunity presents unique opportunities for scientists with Ph.D. and/or MD/DO degrees who:

Exemplify team science approaches into the biological basis, neuroimaging, genetics, cell biology, etc., diagnosis, disease progression, treatment (defined broadly to include behavioral treatments, drug discovery, drug repurposing, therapies, assistive devices, etc.), comparative effectiveness, and health policy relevant to autism and other cognitive and related neurodevelopmental disorders.

Are eager to use animal models that can leverage our current strengths in veterinary research and the abilities we uniquely have at Mizzou. With expertise and interest in the dissemination and implementation of research. Can leverage the exceptionally strong state-wide relationships and training infrastructure at the Thompson Center and the university’s Extension program. Will conduct research using state-of-the-art neuro-imaging equipment and establish team science collaborations with imaging faculty experts and staff offered by NextGen. Would benefit from access to a large and highly engaged patient population at the Thompson Center would be especially well suited to these positions. Are eager to join and contribute to our mission to create a more inclusive and diverse scientific community.

Clinician scientists who span both clinical care and basic science approaches are ideal candidates. 

Clinician Scientists can expect up to 20% clinical time, with the remaining time made up of established research funding and dedicated start-up time.

These faculty will have an academic home in the School of Medicine as appropriate with their discipline and may also have joint appointments in The School of Health Professions with their disciplinary “home” department where applicable.

Minimum Qualifications:

• PhD and/or MD/DO
• Experience in research focused on autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

Candidates will be evaluated on:

• BC/BE in Psychiatry, Neurology, Genetics, Developmental Pediatrics, or other relevant specialties
• Clinician Scientists who span clinical care and basic science approaches with an interest in or experience with clinical trials and clinical research protocols
• Candidates bringing funded research projects

Our Community

Columbia is rated by Forbes magazine as the fifth best small city for business and careers in America and is consistently rated a top place to live by Money Magazine, boasting a low cost of living, a vibrant community, and nationally renowned public schools. Columbia is an ideal college town that combines small-town comforts, and community spirit, with big-city culture, activities, and resources. Our community is energetic and engaged, packed with restaurants and entertainment venues, and hosts more than a dozen annual cultural festivals.