Research Scientist

JOB PURPOSE: 

The purpose of this position is to operate orbitrap Exploris 480 mass spectrometer and participate in grant related research projects at the RCMI Proteomics Core facility. The projects require extensive knowledge of Mass Spectrometry Proteomics and related data analysis techniques, protein chemistry and biochemistry. This position typically reports to the Director of RCMI Proteomics Core facility. 

SUPERVISORY AUTHORITY: 

Under the supervision of the RCMI Proteomics Core Director, formally plans, executes the designated project (s) in the laboratory. Typically responsible for performing non-supervisory duties, but usually participates in the training and supervision of the laboratory work of students.   

NATURE AND SCOPE: 

Internal contacts include investigators administrators, faculty, staff and students both within the department/center and University-wide. External contacts include government agencies, scientific collaborators, vendors, visitors, and the general public. 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: 

• Operate and maintain Orbitrap Exploris 480. Plan, develop, execute, and coordinate strategies in pursuit of designated research project(s), and other types of projects as may be needed. Implement approved center/department policies and procedures in the pursuit/support of research projects and grant applications. 

• Interact with peers to gain experience on ongoing project(s), report to PI concerning project execution, research operation and recommend operational changes, as needed. 
• Prepare research manuscripts for publication, contribute to grant preparation, and contribute to preparation of annual reports. 

• Ensure that research goals and objectives specified for the assigned project(s) are accomplished in accordance within established priorities, time and funding limitations, or other specifications. 

• Develop and schedule project-specific research support plans in accordance with overall workload, project needs, and resources. 

• Recommend additional equipment, software, and resources needed for project development. Prepare ad hoc reports on status of projects for the director. 

• Confer with and advise staff, students and faculty to provide technical advice, problem solving assistance, and center/department policy information; answers to questions relative to specific research projects. 
• Work with evaluation professional(s) to advise and implement evaluation methodologies to assess center/department effectiveness. 

• Perform other related duties as assigned. 

CORE COMPETENCIES:  

• Perform specialized lab techniques, including (but not limited to) Mass Spectrometry, protein isolation and purification. Expertise in proteomics data analysis is a plus.  

•  Skill in the operation of a mass spectrometer, preferably Thermo instruments (i.e. an Oribtrap), Windows-based computers and related software applications (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access). 

• Ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing. 

• Ability to establish and maintain effective and harmonious work relations with faculty, staff, students and external entities. 

• Ability to plan, organize and coordinate work with others. 

•  Ability to multi-task efficiently. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

PhD Degree in related field (Biological Sciences/Chemistry, Biochemistry) and 5 years of related work experience.