Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Biochemistry & Molecular Genetics, is seeking a dedicated Researcher Senior to join in the laboratory of Dr. Lindsay Rizzardi (https://sites.uab.edu/rizzardilab) a research team that explores how genetic variation impacts cell type-specific gene regulation in the context of neuro-related diseases. As a Researcher Senior, you will have expanded responsibilities, overseeing complex research projects and providing strategic direction. This professional-level position involves mentoring junior researchers, managing research projects, and ensuring the integrity and quality of research outcomes. Your expertise will be critical in guiding experimental design, data interpretation, and contributing to high-impact publications. The individual should be a motivated researcher with expertise in basic molecular biology, mammalian and iPSC culture, CRISPR technologies, and genomics. The ideal candidate must be able to work independently and help lab members carry out cellular differentiation protocols, generate cell lines (CRISPR editing, piggyBac/lentiviral integration, etc.), and perform standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques. Additional duties include ordering, general lab maintenance, and ensuring compliance with Environmental Health and Safety requirements. Candidates with demonstrated cell culture and molecular genomics experience and a doctorate or master's degree in neuroscience, genetics, genomics or related field are encouraged to apply.

General Responsibilities

As a Researcher Senior, you will have expanded responsibilities, overseeing complex or multiple research projects and providing strategic direction. This professional-level role involves mentoring junior researchers, managing project budgets, and ensuring the integrity and quality of research outcomes. Your expertise will be critical in guiding experimental design, data interpretation, and contributing to high-impact publications. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

1. Plans, coordinates, and conducts scientific research requiring judgment in the independent evaluation, selection, and substantial troubleshooting and modification of standard scientific techniques.

2. Designs, performs and/or oversees experiments and data collection to ensure data integrity and quality control.

3. Collects, analyzes, and interprets data; prepares statistical and narrative reports and/or graphs for publications, grant applications, and presentations at scientific conferences.

4. Perform and/or oversees new research procedures.

5. Helps the PI supervise/train students and other trainees in the lab.

6. Wet Lab Research.

7. Mammalian tissue culture, iPSC differentiation, transfections, CRISPR engineering of stable cell lines.

8. Protein and molecular biology (western blots, quantitative PCR, NGS library prep, cloning).

9. Processing cells and tissues for single cell assays.

10. Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary Range: $ 60,835- $ 98,855

Qualifications

Doctorate degree in a related field OR Master's degree in a related field and two (2) years of related experience OR Bachelor's degree in related field and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• BS or BA, MS, or PhD in molecular biology, biochemistry, neuroscience, genetics, genomics, or closely related field.

• The individual should be a motivated researcher with expertise in basic molecular biology, mammalian and iPSC culture, CRISPR technologies, and genomics.

• The ideal candidate must be able to work independently and help lab members carry out cellular differentiation protocols, generate cell lines (CRISPR editing, piggyBac/lentiviral integration, etc.), and perform standard molecular biology and biochemistry techniques.

• Cell culture expertise –

• Genetic engineering and genomics

• Experimental design and execution

• Data analysis and interpretation

• Scientific writing and communication

• Lab operations

• Research project management

• Training and supervision

• Prior experience with iPSC culture, CRISPR technologies, and NGS library prep.

Key Skills

• Leadership and mentorship

• Independent thinking

• Critical thinking

• Attention to detail

• Strong communication skills

• Collaboration and teamwork

• Organization and time management

• Adaptability

• Accountability and integrity
  

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.