Metabolomics Research Scientist


Position Overview

The Mass Spectrometry and Analytical Proteomics Laboratory (MSAPL Core) is seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist that has experience with Metabolomics to join our team. Metabolomics platform services include, but are not limited to, polar metabolite and lipid profiling (targeted and untargeted), absolute quantification of small molecules and flux analysis. The successful candidate will demonstrate and deliver expertise in metabolomics tools and strategies. The Research Scientist will provide excellent guidance in experimental design and data interpretation for metabolomics, and informational and technical support to core users. In addition to Metabolomics, the associate researcher will work with MSAPL team on targeted analysis of environmentally relevant compounds. Ability to work independently as well as in a team setting.

Job Description

80% - Metabolomics Research Projects & other small molecule analysis, including method development, sample preparation, analysis, data generation, utilization of software for analyzing data, report writing, manuscript writing support, attend research meetings.
  • Design and execute metabolomics experiments to support metabolomic research projects.
  • Perform LC-MS workflow for metabolomics including sample preparation, method development and execution, method validation, data acquisition and analysis, and final report writing.
  • Demonstrate competency in troubleshooting, optimization, and implementation of challenging and innovative LC-MS/MS assays.
15% - Instrument maintenance and troubleshooting, general laboratory maintenance, writing and updating standard operating procedures, billing, supply ordering, receiving, and stocking.
  • Operate and maintain mass spectrum system including but not limited to Thermo Q Exactive-HF, TSQ Altis plus triple quadrupole.
  • Stay current with emerging metabolomics literature and technologies to ensure the MSAPL core remains at the forefront of the field.
  • Setup targeted methods for environmentally relevant compounds.
  • Maintain and document standard operating procedures; revise as needed.
  • Track and maintain relevant Core documentation, including metabolomics service billing and requisitioning information.
  • Monitor and maintain laboratory appearance.
5% - Mentor and train junior staff members in metabolomics and other relevant techniques and analysis
  • Mentor and train junior staff members in metabolomics and other relevant techniques and analysis.
  • Day to day supervision of junior MSAPL staff members’ performance of metabolomics related activities.
  • Provide advice on technical questions related to metabolomics and small molecules.
  • Participate in relevant meetings/conferences.

Required Qualifications

  1. A doctorate or highest professional degree (including JD, MD, or international equivalents) in biochemistry, analytical chemistry or closely related field OR a Master's degree and three years of additional experience in biochemistry, analytical chemistry or closely related field.
  2. Coursework or work experience in untargeted and targeted metabolomics experiments, LC-MS method development, method validation and troubleshooting, as evidenced in application materials.
  3. Experience with metabolomics platforms including but not limited to Thermo Q Exactive-HF, TSQ Altis plus triple quadrupole, as evidenced in application materials.
  4. Graduate level coursework or previous work experience with data analysis and interpretation skills, including proficiency with statistical analysis software and metabolomics data analysis tools, as evidenced in application materials.
  5. Work experience that demonstrated the ability to stay current with relevant techniques and technologies as demonstrated in resume/work history.
  6. Graduate level coursework or work experience that demonstrated competency with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry.
  7. Work experience that required excellent communication and collaboration skills with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment, as demonstrated by work history.
  8. Work experience that required strong communication, organizational and interpersonal skills, as evidenced by application materials.

Preferred Qualifications

  1. PhD in biochemistry, analytical chemistry, or related field with a focus on metabolomics.
  2. Experience with Q-Exactive HF and TSQ Altis Plus Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometers.
  3. Experience with Vanquish LC system.
  4. Experience with Compound Discoverer, Skyline, LipidSearch analysis software and other Open-Source software.

Additional Candidate Instructions

A complete electronic application will include a detailed resume, a cover letter and the names and contact information for three professional references.

Application review will begin on January 19, 2024, and continue until a qualified candidate is identified. To ensure first consideration, please apply by January 18, 2024.

Contact Information to Applicants

Dr. Anita Saraf
785-864-0692
ans@ku.edu

Advertised Salary Range

65,000.00 - 80,000.00 commensurate with experience

Application Review Begins

Friday January 19, 2024

Anticipated Start Date

Thursday February 1, 2024

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Posting Information

  • Posting ID:  26892BR
  • Department:  Molecular Structures Group
  • Primary Campus:  University of Kansas Lawrence Campus
  • Assignment:  On-Site
  • Reg/Temp:  Regular
  • Employee Class:  U-Unclassified Professional Staff
  • Review Begins:  19-Jan-2024

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