Research Specialists

Details

Open Date: 01/22/2026

Requisition Number: PRN
44089B

Job Title: Research Specialists

Working Title: Research Specialists I

Career Progression Track: P00

Track Level: P1 - Entry Level Pro

FLSA Code: Professional

Patient Sensitive Job Code?: No

Standard Hours per Week: 40

Full Time or Part Time?: Full Time

Shift: Day

VP Area: U of U Health - Academics

Department: 00219 - Neurobiology Research

Location: Campus

City: Salt Lake City, UT

Type of Recruitment: External Posting

Pay Rate Range: $27,194 to $62,386

Close Date: 04/27/2026

The Osterhout Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology is seeking a motivated Research Specialist I or II, depending upon previous experience, to support NIH‑funded research investigating the neural and immune mechanisms underlying sickness behaviors, such as pain sensitivity, and neuroimmune communication. The lab uses cutting‑edge neurobiology approaches including mouse behavioral assays, histology, chemo genetics, viral circuit tracing, single‑cell transcriptomics, and spatial transcriptomics.

The Research Specialist will work closely with lab members to:

• Set up and conduct experiments following established protocols in molecular neuroscience and immunology.
• Perform mouse handling, husbandry, surgical procedures, and behavioral testing.
• Prepare and process mouse brain tissue for histology, immunostaining, in-situ hybridization, and imaging.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to research documentation (manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant materials).
• Remain current on relevant research methods and laboratory techniques.

Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu

The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.

• Set up and conduct experiments under close supervision.
• Perform routine mouse handling, injections (i.p., s.c.), and basic husbandry.
• Assist with mouse behavioral assays.
• Prepare tissue samples for histology, immunostaining, and imaging.
• Perform basic data entry, organization, and preliminary analysis.
• Maintain lab stocks, reagents, and equipment.
• Assist with preparation of research documentation.
• Follow established protocols with limited independent judgment.

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related experience, or
• Master’s degree (or equivalency)

This is an Entry‑Level position in the General Professional track.

Job Code: P56431

Grade: P12

Expected Pay Range: $27,194 to $62,386

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT : 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Type Benefited Staff

The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581‑7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post‑retirement rules and restrictions.

Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366‑7770 or (800) 695‑4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581‑7447 if you have questions regarding the post‑retirement rules.

This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen. The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.

Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color,…