Senior Research Professional

Position Summary

The Senior Research Professional will operate with a high level of independence and assume leadership responsibilities within the Ledford Lab. This position reports directly to the Principal Investigator (PI) and is responsible for providing weekly updates on the progress of projects, including both individual research and projects led by other team members. The Senior Research Professional will serve as the primary author on manuscripts and will contribute to grant submissions by drafting substantial portions of preliminary data, methods, and research approaches, as needed.

This position will also oversee animal studies and screening in drug development, organize teams to execute experiments, and communicate results to team members and collaborators. Additional duties include providing biohazard agents (Rhinovirus, Influenza, Mycoplasma) and extracted SP-A from human lavage fluid to collaborators nationally, as needed.

Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience.

None specified.

• Strong experimental design and research methodology development skills
• Proficiency in advanced laboratory techniques (e.g., molecular assays, cell culture, immunoassays)
• Skilled in scientific writing, including manuscript preparation and grant proposal development
• Effective leadership and team management skills, including mentoring and supervising staff and students
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to present complex scientific findings to diverse audiences
• Problem‑solving and critical thinking skills to troubleshoot experimental and operational challenges
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary research teams
• Ability to oversee and optimize laboratory operations and workflows
• Ability to analyze complex data sets and translate findings into actionable conclusions
• Knowledge of biosafety regulations and procedures, including BSL‑2 virus handling
• Familiarity with molecular biology, biochemical, and immunologic research techniques
• Understanding of experimental design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation
• Knowledge of grant development processes and scientific writing standards

Performs research and administrative tasks in a laboratory and office environment which includes the ability to perform repetitive tasks such as data entry, equipment operation, and laboratory procedure and ability to remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) for extended periods while performing experiments, data entry, or administrative tasks. Is driving a responsibility of this position? No. Is this a Position of Trust?

Yes. Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources? No. Is this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care? No. Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications)? Yes.

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre‑employment drug test for positions with high‑risk responsibilities, if applicable.

• Functions as a senior collaborator to develop, design, and execute complex research projects
• Forms research methods and establishes experimental criteria
• Conducts advanced immunologic and/or physiologic asthma research using in vivo and in vitro models, including mouse colonies and human cells
• Leads research involving BSL2 viruses and applies diverse biochemical and molecular techniques
• Authors publications, presents findings at national and international conferences, and contributes to grant proposal development to secure funding

Percentage of time: 50%