Laboratory Cell Profiling Research Scientist III - Chemical Insights Research Institute

Job Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Laboratory Cell Profiling Research Scientist III at UL Research Institutes Chemical Insights Research Institute (CIRI), based in our Research Triangle Park area facilities. The role assists in conducting laboratory toxicology research to support CIRI’s mission of advancing human and environmental health. This role primarily supports the generation of high-throughput high-content imaging (e.g., Cell Painting) data by performing laboratory experiments, generating, analyzing, and interpreting experimental data, operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, and preparing data summaries and written reports.

The Laboratory Cell Profiling Research Scientist III may also support the generation of in vitro transcriptomics data in parallel. The position works under the supervision of and in collaboration with other research scientists to ensure that all laboratory experiments and measurements are accurate and technically sound.

• Perform laboratory toxicology experiments and high-throughput screening studies aligned with CIRI’s mission.
• Develop high-throughput in vitro assays that use high-content imaging to broadly profile biological processes and endpoints.
• May also support high-throughput transcriptomic data generation in tandem.
• Lead segments of assay development, such as retrofitting novel methods to introduce metabolic capacity or onboarding new cell lines for specific chemical safety questions.
• Lead projects within a team of research scientists to screen chemicals in the high-throughput in vitro assays to identify chemicals that may disrupt important biological processes and endpoints and inform threshold concentrations for bioactivity.
• Prepare laboratory reagents and perform cell culture for in vitro assays using primary cells and cell lines.
• Follow laboratory procedures, standard operating protocols, and organization safety and health requirements.
• Communicate project outcomes with professional audiences in the technical field, including collaborative preparation of scientific reports, presentations, and peer-reviewed publications.
• Perform basic maintenance of designated laboratory equipment and coordinate repairs.
• Monitor laboratory inventory of chemicals, cell culture supplies, and reagents to ensure supplies are readily available and in stock.
• Operate with minimal supervision within defined limits of responsibility and observe good laboratory practices.
• Assist in writing research proposals and securing funding from internal and external sources.
• Perform other duties as directed.

• Working knowledge of cell culture and associated techniques to enable use of a broad range of primary cells and cell lines.
• Proficiency in high-throughput in vitro assay development and screening using high-content imaging and transcriptomic endpoints.
• High attention to detail and documentation of laboratory procedures to support highly reproducible and reliable results.
• Demonstrated ability to maintain and grow scientific and applied knowledge and skills.
• Excellent communication skills, oral and written, are required.
• Computational data analysis skills and ability to collaborate with a data analysis team.
• Ability to collaborate with peers and work directly with Research Scientists and other team members to complete a project from start to finish.

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, toxicology, or related field and minimum 8 years of directly related work experience after the bachelor’s degree.
• Master’s degree in biology, biochemistry, toxicology or related field and minimum 4 years of directly related work experience after the master’s degree.
• Doctoral degree in biology, biochemistry, toxicology or related field and a minimum 2 years of directly related work experience after the doctoral degree.

• Experience in high-throughput in vitro assay development and screening using high-content imaging across cell lines.
• Experience with transcriptomic endpoints across multiple cell lines (desirable but not required).
• Experience with automated liquid handling, acoustic dispensing, and imaging platforms.
• Experience managing high-dimensional data within a team of research and bioinformatic scientists.

• All employees are eligible for bonus compensation.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
• Generous 401(k) matching structure of up to 5% of eligible pay.
• Additional 4% invested into retirement savings fund after the first year of continuous employment.
• Flexible working arrangements may be discussed with the manager.
• Paid time off, including vacation, holiday, sick, and volunteer days.

Salary Range: $89,602.01 - $ (Annual).

Pay Type:

Salary.