As a Research Scientist at Nationwide Childrens Hospital, your day-to-day work is dynamic and multifaceted. You will be responsible for leading cutting-edge scientific investigations while actively contributing to the academic and operational vitality of The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.

Your primary responsibility is to design, execute, and oversee high-impact research projects. This involves performing complex laboratory experiments, analyzing sophisticated datasets, and ensuring the highest standards of data integrity and reproducibility. You will translate your findings into peer-reviewed publications and present your work at national and international scientific conferences, enhancing the hospital's reputation as a leader in pediatric research.

Collaboration is a core component of your daily routine. You will work closely with clinical faculty to align laboratory discoveries with clinical needs, potentially facilitating the translation of bench research into bedside therapies. Additionally, you will play an active role in lab citizenship, which includes mentoring junior researchers, maintaining a safe and compliant laboratory environment, and collaborating with administrative staff to manage budgets and resources.

Securing external funding is another critical aspect of the role. You will be expected to actively write and submit grant proposals to federal agencies (such as the NIH), private foundations, and internal funding bodies. Writing grants requires a clear vision of how your research fits into the broader pediatric healthcare landscape and how it can drive meaningful clinical advancements.

To be competitive for a Research Scientist position at Nationwide Childrens Hospital, candidates must possess a strong foundation in biomedical or behavioral science, a proven track record of academic productivity, and excellent interpersonal skills.

Must-Have Qualifications

• A PhD, MD, or equivalent terminal degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, immunology, or public health).
• A strong record of scientific productivity, demonstrated by first-author publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to present complex scientific concepts clearly and write compelling research proposals.
• Proven experience in experimental design, advanced statistical analysis, and troubleshooting complex laboratory methodologies.

Nice-to-Have Qualifications

• Prior postdoctoral research experience in a highly regarded academic or clinical research institution.
• A history of securing external research funding, such as postdoctoral fellowships or transition grants (e.g., NIH K-awards).
• Experience working within pediatric research or a demonstrated understanding of developmental biology and pediatric disease models.
• Prior experience mentoring junior lab staff, graduate students, or research technicians.

• Key Technical Skills: Advanced molecular biology techniques, bioinformatics/computational tools, disease modeling (in vitro/in vivo), and statistical software proficiency.
• Key Soft Skills: Interdisciplinary teamwork, leadership, scientific curiosity, resilience, and excellent stakeholder management.

Q: How difficult is the interview process for a Research Scientist position? A: The process is moderately challenging and highly thorough. It is less about trick questions and more about evaluating the depth, logic, and reproducibility of your science, as well as your ability to communicate and collaborate. The full-day onsite interview requires high energy and preparation, but candidates consistently describe the environment as exceptionally welcoming, friendly, and supportive.

Q: What should I focus on most during my research presentation (job talk)? A: Focus on clarity, logical flow, and translational impact. Ensure you clearly explain the clinical or scientific "why" behind your work, and explicitly state how your research can benefit pediatric health. Be prepared to discuss your future 3-to-5-year research plan and how you plan to secure funding.

Q: What is the work culture like at The Abigail Wexner Research Institute? A: The culture is highly collaborative, mission-driven, and supportive. There is a strong emphasis on "team science," meaning researchers, clinicians, and support staff work closely together. The hospital invests heavily in state-of-the-art facilities and professional development, creating an environment where researchers can truly thrive.

Q: How long does the hiring process typically take from the initial screen to an offer? A: The academic and clinical research hiring process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months. This timeline accounts for coordinating schedules for the full-day onsite interview, collecting feedback from numerous faculty members, and finalizing institutional approvals.

Q: Are there hybrid or remote options for Research Scientists? A: Because this is a hands-on laboratory and collaborative role, Research Scientists are generally expected to be onsite. However, writing days (for grants and manuscripts) and data analysis can often be done remotely, subject to alignment with your division head and lab needs.

To stand out during your interview process at Nationwide Childrens Hospital, consider these practical, insider tips:

Study the Faculty's Work: Research the publications and ongoing projects of the faculty members on your interview itinerary. Mentioning their work and identifying potential areas of collaboration during your 1-on-1 meetings demonstrates genuine interest and proactive thinking.

Tailor Your Presentation: Do not reuse a generic academic presentation. Customize your slides to highlight how your research aligns with pediatric health and the specific strengths of The Abigail Wexner Research Institute.

Clarify Travel and Reimbursements Early: The hospital's HR team is highly organized and will arrange your hotel stay and itinerary. However, make sure to clarify their specific policies regarding mileage and incidentals reimbursement before your trip to avoid any unexpected out-of-pocket expenses.

Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Use your time with current fellows and junior staff to ask about the day-to-day realities of working at the hospital, such as equipment access, core facility turnaround times, and the cost of living in Columbus, Ohio.

Securing a Research Scientist position at Nationwide Childrens Hospital is an exceptional opportunity to advance your scientific career while making a tangible difference in pediatric medicine. The interview process is designed to find outstanding scientists who are also collaborative team players, supportive mentors, and passionate advocates for child health.

To maximize your chances of success, focus your preparation on refining your research presentation, practicing clear communication for diverse audiences, and identifying concrete ways your research can integrate with the hospital's existing strengths. Approach the full-day onsite interview with high energy, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit.

For more detailed salary insights, sample interview questions, and preparation resources tailored specifically to this role, explore the comprehensive tools available on Dataford.

The salary data provided reflects competitive compensation packages designed to attract top-tier scientific talent. When reviewing these figures, consider the total compensation package, which at Nationwide Childrens Hospital includes exceptional healthcare benefits, retirement matching, and robust institutional support for research and professional development.