Careers

The Department of Neurosurgery offers a range of employment opportunities for health care professionals interested in pursuing a career in an environment that promotes both professional and academic excellence.

Duke University is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, genetic information, gender, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

To apply for any of these positions, go to careers.duke.edu  and search by corresponding requisition number.

Open Positions

updated Jan. 15, 2026

Research Opportunities 

Post Doctoral Associate
Requisition: 265152

This position will be jointly mentored by Drs. Quinn Ostrom (Assistant Professor of Neurosurgery and Population Health Sciences) and Anoop Patel (Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Biomedical Engineering, and Pathology). The Ostrom lab is focused on understanding genetic and other factors which influence susceptibility to and prognosis of primary brain tumors. The Patel lab is focused on using single-cell sequencing techniques to study intratumoral heterogeneity in malignant brain tumors.

The primary responsibilities for this position will be focused on analysis of single-cell transcriptomic and epigenomic datasets with the goal of identifying cell types that modulate GBM predisposition. The candidate will also have the opportunity to conceptualize, design, and lead independent research projects aligned with their interests and the broader goals of the project under Drs. Ostrom and Patel’s mentorship.

Qualifications
The applicant should have a Ph.D. in computational biology, bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, genetic epidemiology, or a related field. Expertise in analysis of single cell or spatial sequencing data is required. Experience in analysis of bulk RNA and whole exome sequencing data, and genotyping array data is preferred but not required. Experience in the generation of single cell sequencing data including preparation of high quality single cell/nucleus suspensions from patient tissue, running droplet based microfluidic platforms (10X Genomics), and next generation sequencing library preparation are preferred but not required.

Post Doctoral Associate
Requisition: 263867

A postdoctoral Research Associate (computational biology and bioinformatics area) position is open at Duke University School of Medicine in the lab of Dr. Yi Zhang. The ideal candidate will develop novel machine learning and artificial intelligence (ML/AI) methods for genomics data, especially: large-scale single-cell genomics data, high-definition spatial genomics, digital pathology data, and apply the computational methods to understand biomedical problems like tumor microenvironment, immunology, and aging. The individual will work with Dr. Yi Zhang to develop computational methods and collaborate with other groups in quantitative genomics areas in and outside Duke University. The postdoc candidate will join a highly collaborative team to develop ML/AI x genomics methodology, publish in top CompBio/CS conferences and high impact journals, and obtain training on career development in a supportive environment.

Preferred qualifications:

  • PhD is required for this role. Must be expected to complete within one year, or PhD completed in the last 1-3 years, in a quantitative discipline, such as Computational Biology, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Data science, Physics, Mathematics, Bioinformatics etc; Candidates with multidisciplinary backgrounds are welcome.
  • Strong skills in computational and data analytical methodology development and implementation; experience in machine learning and deep learning models, and willingness to learn about new methods, is a plus.
  • Strong programming skills in Python, and Linux Shell; experience in developing methods as open source repositories at e.g. GitHub is a plus.
  • Strong motivation and interest to analyze genomics data and interpret biomedicine from data; experience in single-cell and spatial omics is a plus.
  • Strong communication skills including writing, publishing, and presenting research at journal articles and conferences; proven track record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals as major author; willingness to collaborate in a multidisciplinary research environment.

Administrative Opportunities 

Associate Chief Administrative Officer

Requisition: 265172

Join Duke University School of Medicine as an Associate Chief Administrative Officer and help shape the future of neuroscience care and research. This senior leadership role supports two world-class departments, Neurosurgery and Neurology by driving strategic initiatives across clinical, research, and education missions.

This role will be responsible for:

  • Lead integrated academic, clinical, and research programs to advance neuroscience excellence.
  • Oversee financial performance, HR strategies, and resource planning for staffing, space, and equipment.
  • Optimize clinical workflows and patient access to improve operational efficiency.
  • Manage faculty and staff compensation processes and ensure compliance with institutional standards.
  • Collaborate on analytics, reporting, and performance dashboards to inform strategic decisions.
  • Mentor administrative teams and foster a culture of collaboration and innovation.
  • Partner with the CAO and department chairs on strategic planning, budgeting, and service line integration.

 Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Health Administration, or related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
  • Ten or more years of progressive leadership experience in healthcare or academic medical administration, with expertise in financial management, grants and contracts, and complex operational systems.
  • Proven ability to lead high-performing teams and drive organizational change.
  • Strong project management, financial acumen, and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience in clinical operations, strategic planning, and cross-functional team leadership required

Staff Assistant

Requisition: 264127

Support the Neurosurgery Department’s research faculty by managing essential administrative and program coordination tasks. This role ensures smooth operations for faculty and their labs, handling everything from travel and event planning to compliance and reporting.

This role’s responsibilities include

  • Provide comprehensive administrative support for research faculty and lab staff.
  • Manage calendars, travel arrangements, speaking engagements, and visiting guests.
  • Oversee expense tracking, corporate card processing, and timely renewals for memberships and certifications.
  • Maintain accurate CV updates, Scholars@Duke profiles, and assist with grant coordination, including biosketch preparation and IRB tracking.
  • Create presentations, draft correspondence, and serve as a liaison across departments.
  • Organize and maintain records, procedural manuals, and space utilization reports.
  • Offer coverage for the Department Chair’s assistant as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience using Concur, particularly for posting and reconciling corporate card transactions.
  • Familiarity with ordering laboratory supplies, ideally within Buy@Duke or similar procurement platforms.
  • Prior experience supporting research faculty and laboratory environments, with an understanding of academic research operations.
  • Strong investigative and problem-solving skills, with the ability to independently identify issues and develop practical solutions.
  • Knowledge of space management processes, including room/area assignments and tracking.

Work requires a broad knowledge of clerical and accounting principles and practices normally acquired through two years of post-secondary education in administrative support or a related business field. Work generally requires four years of related secretarial/clerical experience to acquire skills necessary to administer complex office functions related to office management, communications, and budgetary/accounting activities.

Advanced Practice Provider Opportunities 

Job Eligibility Requirements for all APP Positions

Education           

  • Nurse Practitioners:  Work requires completion of an accredited Nurse Practitioner program, with a Master's degree in Nursing.
  • Physician Assistants:  Completion of an accredited Physician Assistant program. A Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree strongly preferred. 

Certification        

  • BLS required. 

License                

  • Nurse Practitioners:  Must have current or compact RN licensure in the state of North Carolina. BLS required. National certification as a NP required prior to or within 6 months of employment.
  • Physician Assistants:  Must be licensed in the state of NC, and be certified as a Physician Assistant by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. 

Requisition: 264183

Join the Department of Neurosurgery’s Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery team at Duke Regional Hospital and affiliated Ambulatory Surgery Centers near Durham, NC. This role provides direct patient care in collaboration with supervising physicians, including outpatient services and functioning as an operative first assist for spine surgery patients.

Schedule

Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM (flexible to patient needs). No weekend or overnight hours; occasional extended operative days and next-morning discharges for overnight stays.

Job Summary

  • Perform patient assessments, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and assist in surgery.
  • Document histories, progress notes, and treatment plans; respond to patient inquiries during work hours.
  • Order and schedule labs, imaging, and consultations; arrange inpatient admissions when needed.
  • Carry out wound care, dressing changes, and monitor patient progress in collaboration with physicians.
  • Manage operating schedules, follow up on pending studies, and ensure medical clearance.
  • Participate in research projects and teaching opportunities if interested.

Experience          

  • Ability to first assist is strongly preferred. 

Requisition: 257189

Job Location     

Duke Raleigh Hospital - 3400 Wake Forest Road - Raleigh, NC & Locations in Wake County

Job Summary 

We are seeking an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) for our Department of Neurosurgery – Spine Team of Duke Raleigh. The APP will provide direct patient care services in collaboration with the supervising physicians to patients being evaluated for, as well as recovering from spine surgery. This position will involve outpatient services and minimal inpatient services.

Schedule

Primary hours will be Monday through Friday 8:00– 5:00 PM with hours flexible to meet the needs of the patients. Weekend sand holidays are not required unless needed to meet the needs of the patients.

Experience          

  • 2+ years of Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant work experience - neurosurgery, neurology or orthopedic spine preferred. Research experience is preferred but not required.

Requisition: 257475

Join our Spine Tumor/Fracture Clinic in Durham and Cary, NC, as an Advanced Practice Provider working alongside attending physicians to deliver exceptional patient care. This role includes direct clinical responsibilities, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, and coordination of multidisciplinary care for complex spine conditions. Primary schedule is Monday–Friday, day shift, with flexible hours and rotational on-call for emergent surgical cases.

Schedule

Monday-Friday, day shift, with flexibility to meet clinic needs

Job Summary

  • Perform patient assessments, diagnostic procedures, and therapeutic interventions under physician supervision.
  • Document histories, progress notes, and treatment plans; manage patient education and follow-up care.
  • Order and schedule labs, imaging, and consultations; explain procedures and outcomes to patients.
  • Support intake and triage of new referrals, ensuring accurate data collection and coordination across service lines.
  • Assist with grant-related tasks, research projects, and development of standard operating procedures.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, maintain accurate records, and oversee intake summaries for neurosurgery, oncology, and palliative care.
  • Participate in teaching, training, and quality improvement initiatives.

Experience beyond Minimum Requirements          

  • 1+ years of APP experience strongly preferred.
  • Any experience working with spinal pathologies is preferred. 

Requisition: 257510

Job Location     

Duke Clinic & Duke University Hospital - 40 Duke Medicine Cir. Durham, NC 27710.

Job Summary 

We are seeking an Advanced Practice Provider (APP) for our Department of Neurosurgery – Spine Team of Durham locations. The APP will provide direct patient care services in collaboration with the supervising physicians to patients being evaluated for, as well as recovering from spine surgery. This position will involve outpatient services and minimal inpatient services. The provider will be responsible for developing therapeutic relationships with patients, making recommendations on which Neurosurgeon to refer patient to for additional care and possible surgery. The role will receive support from supervising physician throughout day

Schedule

Primary hours will be Monday through Friday 8:00– 5:00 PM with hours flexible to meet the needs of the patients. Weekends and holidays are not required unless needed to meet the needs of the patients.

Experience          

  • Minimum of one year of Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant outpatient work experience - neurosurgery, neurology or orthopedic spine preferred. Research experience is preferred but not required