Sr Research Specialist

University of Rochester • Town of Henrietta, NY

6d • $31 - $46 • Onsite

About The Position

As a community, the University of Rochester is defined by a deep commitment to Meliora - Ever Better. Embedded in that ideal are the values we share: equity, leadership, integrity, openness, respect, and accountability. Together, we will set the highest standards for how we treat each other to ensure our community is welcoming to all and is a place where all can thrive.

Under the general direction of the Toxicology/Mass Spectrometry Director, and with substantial latitude for independent judgment, this position serves as the laboratory's senior scientific and technical expert in assay development, liquid chromatography (LC), mass spectrometry (MS), and emerging analytical technologies. Responsibilities include leading the research, development, validation, implementation, and optimization of clinical assays on LC-MS; evaluating new LC and MS instrumentation and testing platforms; and providing technical leadership for laboratory-developed tests and advanced diagnostic services. The position serves as a key resource for troubleshooting, staff development, regulatory compliance, and strategic technology initiatives, while collaborating with laboratory leadership to expand testing capabilities, improve operational performance, and support the department's clinical, academic, research, and innovation missions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and 5 years of related work experience involving direct assistance to researchers required
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Extensive hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS-based analytical platforms, including assay development, validation, optimization, troubleshooting, and implementation.
• Ability to troubleshoot and repair equipment as needed required

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree preferred
• PhD preferred
• Experience with both small molecules and protein/peptide analyses, preferred
• Self-motivated, proactive, and results-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities independently, preferred
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and contribute to a positive work environment, preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, validation, implementation, optimization, and lifecycle management of clinical assays and laboratory-developed tests on LC-MS/MS, including experimental design, data analysis, interpretation of results, and transition into clinical operations.
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulatory and accreditation requirements, including CAP, CLIA, FDA, New York State Department of Health, and other standards governing clinical laboratory testing.
• Evaluate, implement, and support new instrumentation, analytical technologies, and testing platforms to advance laboratory capabilities, quality, efficiency, and strategic growth initiatives.
• Serve as the laboratory's technical expert in LCMS and related analytical technologies, providing advanced troubleshooting and resolution of complex assay, instrumentation, and operational issues.
• Support the development of technical procedures, validation plans, training materials, and other documentation necessary to support assay implementation, regulatory compliance, and laboratory operations.
• Collaborate with laboratory leadership, clinicians, scientists, and external partners to support innovation initiatives, new test development, scientific publications, grant applications, and strategic technology planning.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior