"RESEARCH SCIENTIST SENIOR"

Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Med - Pulmonary/Allergy/Critical Care, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Research Scientist to serve as a subject matter expert in cellular and animal models of metabolism, specifically focusing on models for oxidized lipid mediator metabolite identification. This person will be responsible for designing, generating, and maintaining complex animal models central to our studies. The primary focus of this role will be the development and execution of studies using relevant models (e.g., genetically modified rodents, diet-induced models) to investigate metabolic pathways. This position requires expertise in vivarium management practices, metabolic phenotyping techniques, and the ability to coordinate across multiple scientific teams. Further, this role demands expertise in Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) instrumentation and experimental design for metabolism identification.

General Responsibilities

A Research Scientist Senior oversees substantial research projects, providing expert guidance and ensuring rigorous scientific standards. This role involves a broader scope of responsibility, including project management, cross-functional collaboration, and securing funding through grant proposals. Senior scientists exercise considerable discretion in research decisions and play a pivotal role in shaping the research agenda. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Designs and conducts experimental research and investigations to explore and support scientific discovery and/or development.
2. Records, interprets, and analyzes study data.
3. Oversee the breeding, genotyping, and expansion of complex genetic mice and rat colonies, ensuring accurate records and adherence to institutional animal care and use guidelines (IACUC).
4. Independently design and execute experiments for the identification and structural characterization of metabolites (e.g., drug metabolites, biomarkers, catabolites) from in vitro (microsomes, hepatocytes) and in vivo (plasma, urine, tissue) samples.
5. Develops research documentation, such as protocols, reports, reviews, publications, manuscripts, and/or summaries.
6. Disseminates research findings to internal and external audiences.
7. Ensures the quality standards and scientific integrity in research activities are maintained.
8. Remains knowledgeable of relevant scientific and technical developments.
9. Conducts complex assignments important to the organization.
10. Acts independently with little supervision.
11. May mentor less experienced team members.
12. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research participant contact, animal contact, and/or specimens.
13. Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary Range

$81,525- $88,000

Qualifications

Doctorate degree in a related field and three (3) years of related experience OR Master's degree in a related field and five (5) years of related experience OR Bachelor's degree in a related field and seven (7) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• Electrospray ionization, triple quadrupole mass spectrometry experience is preferred
• Experience with cellular and animal models, maintaining animal colonies
• Experience with oxidized lipid meditors
• Proven record of scientific contribution
• PhD in Pharmaceutical or Nutrition Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry preferred

Key Skills

• Strong communication skills, a proven ability to lead projects, and a passion for mentoring junior team members.