"Senior Research Scholar - Mass Spectrometry Metabolomics"

Senior Research Scholar - Mass Spectrometry Metabolomics

Company: North Carolina State University

Job Location: Raleigh, North Carolina

Category: Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Type: Full-Time

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Location: Raleigh, NC

Essential Job Duties:

Duties include, but are not limited to:

1. Experimental Consultation and Design:

• Serve as the point of contact for client inquiries in the area of small molecule analysis by targeted and untargeted metabolomics, including lipidomics.
• Provide expert advice on experimental design, including selection of sample preparation techniques and analytical methods, to ensure methodological rigor and feasibility.
• Collaborate with other staff members to develop and optimize metabolomics experimental protocols.
• Stay abreast of the latest advances in analytical methods and techniques to integrate into research projects.

1. Sample Preparation and Acquisition:

• Perform liquid, liquid-liquid, or SPE extraction, derivatization, and other pre-analytical steps to ensure sample integrity and suitability for downstream analysis.
• Operate and maintain LC-MS metabolomics instrumentation (e.g. Thermo TSQ Altis Triple Quadrupole, Exploris 240, Exploris 480, ID-X).
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample handling and preparation to ensure consistency across studies.

1. Data Analysis and Interpretation:

• Perform metabolomics studies and report the results (analyte peak area or concentrations) using relevant software such as Skyline, MS-Dial, and Compound Discoverer.
• Use appropriate statistical and bioinformatics tools to extract meaningful biological insights.
• Perform pathway analysis using specialized software and databases, as needed.
• Interpret complex datasets and collaborate with researchers to contextualize findings within the scope of the project.
• Prepare detailed reports and visualizations of data for internal review, publication in scientific journals, and use in grant applications.

1. Administrative Responsibilities:

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory records, including experimental protocols, data logs, and inventory of samples and reagents.
• Coordinate with the operations manager to ensure adequate supplies; ensure continuity of operations by coordinating maintenance of major instrumentation and associated ancillary equipment.
• Assist in the training and supervision of staff and students in metabolomics techniques and best practices.
• Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, grant applications, and progress reports for funding agencies.
• Ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements related to biosafety, data management, and ethical standards.

1. Additional duties as assigned based on institutional needs and priorities.
2. Other Work/Responsibilities:
3. Other duties as assigned.
4. Minimum Experience/Education:

• Ph.D. in a relevant field, with at least five years of experience in metabolomics research methods and/or post-degree professional work experience with a demonstrated record of research achievement.
• OR
• Relevant Master's degree, plus at least 8 years of exceptional relevant professional work experience and a record of research achievements.
• OR
• In rare instances, an individual with comparable professional experience but less than a master's degree will be considered, on an exception basis. May require terminal degree and licensure.

1. Required Qualifications:

• Significant experience in untargeted and targeted metabolomics, advanced separations, tandem MS, absolute quantification, IROA, credentialing, bioinformatics, and metabolome databases.
• Demonstrated ability to develop workflows and standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Must possess exceptional communication skills, including written and verbal, be highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Must be able to work independently, use initiative, prioritize tasks, and anticipate potential pressure points in workflows.
• Ability to develop and maintain productive collaborative work relationships with all clients by listening, understanding and responding to apparent and underlying needs and continually seeking to provide the highest quality service to all.

1. Preferred Qualifications:

• Prefer experience with lipidomics and/or mass spectrometry-based imaging.
• Prefer experience with integrating data from multiple-omics based approaches.

1. Required License or Certification:
2. N/A
3. AA/EEO Statement:
4. NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodations in the application and interview process are welcome to contact 919-515-3148 to speak with a representative at the Office of Institutional Equity and Diversity.
5. If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at (919) 515-2135 or workatncstate@ncsu.edu.
6. Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. Degree(s) must be obtained prior to start date in order to meet qualifications and receive credit.
7. NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.