"RESEARCHER"

Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, seeks to hire an experienced Researcher to perform research functions. Our research focuses on lung injury, fibrosis, and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. The position requires a researcher who can independently design, carry, and lead projects while contributing to manuscripts and grant development. Candidates should have strong hands-on experience with routine biomedical laboratory techniques, such as cell culture, molecular cloning, molecular biology assays (PCR, qPCR, Western blotting), immunofluorescence microscopy, and flow cytometry.

General Responsibilities

As a Researcher, you will play a key role in driving scientific discovery by independently leading and executing research projects. This professional-level position demands a high degree of expertise and judgement in designing studies, analyzing data, and may involve assistants in publishing findings. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, manage project timelines, and contribute to grant writing and securing funding for future research. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Lead independent research projects from design through publication, establishing objectives, methods, and timelines.
2. Conduct experiments across molecular biology, cell culture, biochemistry, and histology to generate robust data.
3. Perform in vivo mouse studies including handling, treatments, tissue collection, processing, and phenotypic assessment.
4. Analyze and interpret experimental data, apply appropriate statistics, and maintain thorough reproducible documentation.
5. Prepare manuscripts, abstracts, and contribute to grant proposals to disseminate findings and secure funding.
6. Present findings at lab meetings, seminars, and conferences; mentor and guide junior lab members.
7. Ensure strict compliance with institutional animal care, biosafety, and ethical guidelines; implement best practices.
8. Manage multiple projects and timelines; coordinate internal resources and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
9. Drive grant writing and funding efforts for future research by developing proposals and coordinating with collaborators.
10. Foster external collaborations and coordinate with research animal contacts and/or specimen handling as required by the project focus. (Estimated 8%)
11. Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Master's degree in a related field OR Bachelor's degree in related field and two (2) years of related experience OR Associate's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required or High School diploma or GED and six (6) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• Experience with mouse handling and experimental procedures (e.g., injections, tissue collection, genotyping, or surgical models) is preferred.
• Strong previous research experience in molecular biology and cell biology.
• Expertise in DNA, RNA, protein expression and regulation studies.
• Ability to coordinate multiple projects and collaborate effectively with others.
• Demonstrated proficiency in standard lab techniques and in vivo mouse work.
• Strong publication record and ability to work independently.
• Excellent experimental and troubleshooting skills.