Senior Research Specialist

Department of Biochemistry

Position Overview
The Senior Research Specialist will serve as the team's subject matter expert on Legionella pneumophila biology, including culture growth, intracellular growth, and molecular genetics. This role plays a central part in fostering a collaborative, efficient, and high-functioning research environment by monitoring workflows, maintaining meticulous documentation, and ensuring adherence to safety and compliance standards. The Research Scientist will contribute to study design, data analysis, and scientific communication, including the preparation of grant proposals, abstracts, manuscripts, and presentations. The position requires flexibility to work in multiple environments, cross-train for essential back-up systems, and engage in consistent communication with internal and external collaborators.

Key Responsibilities
* Design and execute experiments to study Legionella growth, virulence factor expression, and host cell interactions.
* Utilize and develop microbiological techniques, including culturing, microscopy, and molecular methods such as PCR, for cloning and characterization.
* Employ biochemical and biophysical methods to express, isolate, and analyze bacterial components and host-pathogen interactions.
* Implement, adapt, and maintain laboratory protocols, ensuring biosafety and compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines.
* Analyze and interpret data from quantitative and qualitative microbiological, biochemical, and biophysical assays.
* Critically evaluate research findings, propose new hypotheses, and identify opportunities for further investigation.
* Utilize statistical analysis tools and software to process and interpret experimental results.
* Maintain thorough, organized laboratory records and data documentation.
* Prepare scientific reports, presentations, and publications; contribute to grant writing and funding proposals.
* Present research findings at conferences and to collaborative partners as needed.
* Ensure a safe laboratory environment at all times through proper practices, training, and oversight.

Monday - Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Bachelor's degree and at least 2 years of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

Masters or PhD and 5 years of experience preferred.
Professional Interests: Microbiology, Biophysics, Biochemistry

Salary Range: $52,915.20 - $68,161.60 annually
Grade: GGS - 9E
University Title: RESEARCH SPECIALIST SR
Internal applicants can determine their university title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

In addition to the Online Application, please provide a Cover Letter and Resume.

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.