Sr Research Scientist - Metabolomics

University of Massachusetts Medical School•Worcester, MA

About The Position

The UMass Chan Metabolomics Core Facility seeks an enthusiastic and motivated scientist to support metabolism-based research projects across a variety of experimental models using high-resolution, accurate-mass liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Under the direction of the Core Director, the Sr Research Scientist provides operational support to the metabolomics and lipidomics platform by performing bench-level experiments and collaborating with researchers to develop and apply LC/MS-based approaches that advance their projects. The role requires discretion in prioritizing and organizing workflows, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively to ensure high-quality data acquisition in a state-of-the-art laboratory. The scientist leads multiple collaborative projects, prepares and analyzes samples, performs targeted and untargeted LC/MS/MS experiments, develops methods and workflows, and consults with researchers on experimental design and interpretation. The position also contributes to reports, grants, manuscripts, presentations, laboratory operations, personnel training, and safety oversight.

Requirements

Ph.D. in analytical chemistry, (bio)chemistry, or a related field.
At least 7 years of research experience, including at least 3 years of experience in metabolomics and/or lipidomics, or at least 1 year of postdoctoral research experience.
Familiarity with high-resolution mass spectrometers, such as Orbitraps.
Experience with liquid chromatography, including standard analytical flow.
Willingness to work in a collaborative environment and an outward-facing customer-service orientation.
Recent bench-work experience.
Ability to prepare research reports.
Good verbal and written communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to understand scientific, experimental, and/or research theory.

Nice To Haves

Experience with lipidomics in addition to metabolomics.
Experience with gas chromatography, NMR, or other methods of analyzing metabolism.
Understanding of the use of stable isotopes in tracing experiments.
Broad knowledge of open-source, high-resolution, accurate-mass data-analysis software.
Experience in advanced data processing and analysis using tools such as Matlab, R, or Python.
Familiarity with statistical methods used in larger cohort studies.
Willingness to explore and adopt AI into the metabolomics workflow.

Responsibilities

Serve as project lead on multiple projects with different collaborators.
Assist with weekly cleaning and calibration of LC/MS instrumentation and conduct data quality checks.
Prepare samples for metabolomics and lipidomics experiments.
Optimize extraction protocols and assist researchers with metabolite extractions.
Perform targeted and untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics LC/MS/MS experiments.
Analyze data using software such as TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer, and LipidSearch.
Consult with researchers on experimental design and data interpretation.
Produce reports and share them with collaborators.
Participate in grant writing and manuscript preparation.
Present data at group meetings and potentially attend scientific conferences.
Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of mass spectrometers.
Develop new metabolomics and lipidomics methods and workflows when needed.
Assist with general laboratory tasks as needed.
Maintain detailed records and adhere to standard operating procedures.
Supervise and train new laboratory personnel and junior laboratory members.
Serve as the EHS contact and monitor and enforce laboratory safety standards.
Perform other duties as assigned.