MIDUS BioCore Lead Research Specialist

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Job Category:

Academic Staff

Regular

Research Specialist

The Institute on Aging is hiring a lead Research Specialist to support the MIDUS (Midlife in the United States) study—a national longitudinal research project examining the human aging process. MIDUS investigates how biological, psychological, and socioeconomic factors influence mental and physical health across the lifespan. This position is part of the MIDUS Biological Core, which manages the collection, shipment, and analysis of human biological samples.

The lead Research Specialist will work closely with investigators to coordinate sample logistics and processing; conduct laboratory assays; collaborate with research investigators on MIDUS study protocols; coordinate shipment and tracking of biological samples across multiple research sites; perform immunological and related assays to measure hormones, immune system, and other health related biomarkers; perform analyses related to biomarker assays to assess health outcomes;

and contribute to interdisciplinary research integrating biological, psychological, and socioeconomic data impact on health and well‑being.

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
• Monitors longitudinal data for accuracy; prepares final reports for data distribution; and monitors for protocol compliance.
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences

Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research, Institute on Aging

The starting salary for the position is $66,000, but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

This position offers a comprehensive benefits package, including generous paid time off, competitively priced health/dental/vision/life insurance, tax‑advantaged savings accounts, and participation in the nationally recognized Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS) pension fund. For a summary of benefits, please see https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

• A minimum of 8 years’ experience in a lab setting.
• Background in biology, immunology, or related field.
• Experience with laboratory assays and sample handling.
• Excellent bench/pipetting or related skills.
• Experience with data entry (Excel).
• Position requires strong organizational skills, professional communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.

• Experience with statistical programs.
• Knowledge of medical terminology and diagnostic tests.
• Knowledge of 'omics' fields and platforms, including genomics and metabolomics.
• Experience working with biological specimens (e.g., blood, urine, saliva).
• Experience performing immunological or other biomarker assays (e.g., ELISA).
• Interest in aging research and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Bachelor's degree in biology, neurobiology, microbiology, immunology, genetics, chemistry, or related field is the preferred minimum.

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