Research Specialist

Research Specialist

The Research Specialist serves as a skilled member of the Graves Laboratory and provides technical, research, and operational support for a multidisciplinary research program focused on oral-gut biology, stress biology, immunology, microbiome science, molecular mechanisms of disease, and translational biomedical research. The position performs a variety of specialized research activities, including conducting laboratory experiments, collecting and maintaining research data, assisting with data analysis, preparing reports and summaries, and supporting manuscript, presentation, and grant preparation.

The specialist assists with day-to-day laboratory operations, including maintenance of laboratory equipment, ordering and inventory management, implementation of standard operating procedures, and compliance with institutional, state, and federal research regulations. The position coordinates animal research activities, including animal husbandry, colony maintenance, genotyping, record keeping, and support of approved IACUC protocols. The Research Specialist serves as a laboratory safety supervisor by helping maintain laboratory safety procedures, training documentation, chemical inventories, and regulatory records.

The incumbent trains and provides technical guidance to students, laboratory personnel, and trainees in established research methods and laboratory procedures, assists with scheduling and coordination of research activities, and contributes to the successful completion of multiple concurrent research projects through application of scientific knowledge, technical expertise, and effective laboratory management practices.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Management Preferences
- Coursework in biological sciences, biomedical sciences, microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related field. Demonstrated experience performing independent laboratory research, including molecular biology, cell culture, microbiology, animal, or related biomedical research techniques. Experience managing laboratory operations, including maintaining inventories, ordering supplies, ensuring regulatory compliance, or coordinating research activities. Ability to collect, organize, analyze, or interpret research data while maintaining strong attention to detail or commitment to scientific rigor.

Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
- The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.