Lead Proteomics Scientist

University of Kentucky

Equal Employment Opportunity/M/F/disability/protected veteran status.

Requisition Number: RE55208

Grade Level: 49

Salary Range: $73,/year

Position Type:
Staff

Employment Status:
Full-Time

Work Location:

Lexington, KY

Advance Proteomics Research with Cutting-Edge Mass Spectrometry Technologies

The University of Kentucky is seeking a Lead Proteomics Scientist to provide scientific leadership for proteomics services within the Mass Spectrometry Core. This role will lead the development of advanced proteomics workflows, support collaborative research programs, and expand the university's mass spectrometry capabilities. The successful candidate will work closely with investigators across multiple disciplines to design experiments, generate high-quality data, and advance impactful research initiatives.

• Develop and implement discovery, quantitative, targeted, and specialized proteomics workflows
• Design and optimize LC-MS/MS methods and data analysis pipelines
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation
• Conduct proteomics experiments, including sample preparation and quantitative analyses
• Consult with investigators on study design, analytical strategies, and data interpretation
• Support manuscript preparation, grant applications, and collaborative research efforts
• Evaluate emerging technologies and incorporate new approaches into core services
• Maintain quality control standards, laboratory compliance, and operational excellence

• Expertise in LC-MS/MS-based proteomics and quantitative proteomics methodologies
• Experience with high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms and proteomics data analysis software
• Strong background in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific collaboration
• Experience supporting multidisciplinary research teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills
• Commitment to advancing research through innovative technologies and best practices

• Ph.D.
• 5+ years of related experience

• Minimum of 5 years of proteomics experience beyond the Ph.D. (e.g., post-doctoral research, industry scientist role, or academic core facility position).
• Demonstrated expertise in LC-MSbased proteomics, including hands‑on experience with modern Orbitrap or equivalent high‑resolution mass spectrometry platforms.
• Experience with Thermo Scientific instrumentation, including Orbitrap Exploris, Ascend, and Altis platforms.
• Proficiency in at least three major proteomics workflow types: discovery proteomics (DDA and/or DIA), quantitative proteomics (TMT, SILAC, or LFQ), targeted proteomics (PRM/ MRM), or PTM analysis.

• Experience developing and executing quantitative proteomics data analysis workflows using standard software tools.
• Strong record of scientific achievement demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications arising from collaborative proteomics projects.
• Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated commitment to supporting a diverse research community across disciplines.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, maintain accurate records, and meet deliverable timelines across a diverse investigator user base.
• Familiarity with NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy, HIPAA-compliant handling of human research samples, and relevant IRB considerations.
• Experience with long-read or top-down proteomics approaches, or multi-omics data integration.
• Experience developing or contributing to cost-recovery pricing structures for core facility services.

• Meaningful impact:
  Support research that advances scientific discovery and human health
• Scientific leadership:
  Help shape the future of proteomics capabilities at the University of Kentucky
• Collaborative environment:
  Partner with researchers across a wide range of disciplines
• Cutting-edge technology:
  Work with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry platforms and analytical tools
• Professional growth:
  Engage with national leaders, emerging technologies, and high-impact research programs
• UK's Exceptional Benefits

Proteomics is playing an increasingly important role in understanding complex biological systems, identifying therapeutic targets, and supporting translational research. As demand for advanced proteomics services continues to grow, the university is investing in the expertise and technologies needed to support next-generation research initiatives.

In this role, you'll help expand scientific capabilities, strengthen collaborative research programs, and provide investigators with the tools and expertise needed to answer challenging biological questions. Your contributions will directly support the growth of the Mass Spectrometry Core and the success of research programs across the university.

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