Researcher, Research​/Development, Research Scientist

Job Summary

The Engin Lab is looking for a Researcher to contribute to the lab's research efforts focused on understanding the mechanism of type 1 diabetes. The work in the lab involves molecular biology, cell culture, microscopy, and mouse metabolic and pharmacological treatment experiments. The successful candidate will conduct independent research under the guidance of the PI and assist with the development of lab experiments involving molecular biology (PCR, quantitative PCR, flow cytometry, mammalian cell culture, cell biology (immunostaining, microscopy)).

The candidate will be expected to maintain genetically manipulated mouse lines and to characterize metabolic phenotypes in these strains. Procedures include mouse husbandry, PCR-based genotyping, histology, immunohistochemistry, and metabolic phenotyping (measurement of body weight and blood glucose, collection of tissue and blood samples, treatment of mice with various drugs). The Researcher will prepare figures of their experiments/findings and present their data in weekly lab meetings and potentially in other local or national seminars/conferences.

Additional responsibilities include ordering supplies when necessary, maintaining laboratory records, preparation of laboratory reagents, maintaining laboratory equipment, supervising student workers, and training laboratory staff in techniques and protocols. It is expected that the Researcher will be an active participant in the lab, attend and present at regular group meetings, and prepare portions of scientific manuscripts on which she/he will be a co-author.

More information about our research and publications can be found .

• Conduct literature reviews, prepare reports and materials, and disseminate information to appropriate entities and assist with publications.
• Identify concerns and recommend solutions to leadership.
• Assist in developing grant applications and proposals to secure research funding.
• Assist with the development of research methodologies and procedures.
• Collect and analyze basic research data, conduct experiments and interviews, and document results according to established policies and procedures.
• Train individuals and groups on equipment operations, research protocols, and techniques within a specialized laboratory or research area.

• At least 3 years of full‑time laboratory experience in an academic environment post bachelor's.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture.
• Excellent record‑keeping and organizational skills.

• Experience working with mouse colonies, genotyping by PCR, administration of drugs.
• Experience with siRNA, shRNA, gene knock‑out or over‑expression in mammalian culture.
• Familiarity with molecular biology techniques such as PCR, western blot, DNA and RNA isolation.
• Imaging (confocal).
• Immunofluorescence, immunostaining.
• Flow cytometry.

Bachelor's degree required, Master's degree preferred; focus in molecular biology, cell biology, immunology, biochemistry, or related field.

The starting salary for the position is $50,000; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

• SMPH Academic Staff Benefits Flyer

To apply for this position, select either “I am a current employee” or “I am not a current employee” under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials. Important:
There is only one attachment field. All required documents must be combined into a single file and uploaded in that field.

Required documents:

• Cover letter
• Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience align with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected.

University sponsorship is not available for this position, including transfers of sponsorship and TN visas. The selected applicant will be responsible for ensuring their continuous eligibility to work in the United States…