Research Scholar, Metabolomics

About the role

The Research Scholar, Metabolomics position at the Molecular Education, Technology and Research Innovation Center (METRIC) is responsible for serving as the primary point of contact for client inquiries in the area of small molecule analysis by targeted and untargeted metabolomics, including lipidomics. This role involves providing expert advice on experimental design, performing sample preparation and acquisition, conducting data analysis and interpretation, and administrative responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Experimental Consultation and Design: Serve as the point of contact for client inquiries in the area of small molecule analysis by targeted and untargeted metabolomics, including lipidomics. Provide expert advice on experimental design, including selection of sample preparation techniques and analytical methods, to ensure methodological rigor and feasibility. Collaborate with other staff members to develop and optimize metabolomics experimental protocols. Stay abreast of the latest advances in analytical methods and techniques to integrate into research projects.

• Sample Preparation and Acquisition: Perform liquid, liquid-liquid, or SPE extraction, derivatization, and other pre-analytical steps to ensure sample integrity and suitability for downstream analysis. Operate and maintain LC-MS metabolomics instrumentation (e.g. Thermo TSQ Altis Triple Quadrupole, Exploris 240, Exploris 480, ID-X). Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for sample handling and preparation to ensure consistency across studies.

• Data Analysis and Interpretation: Perform metabolomics studies and report the results (analyte peak area or concentrations) using relevant software such as Skyline, MS-Dial, and Compound Discoverer. Use appropriate statistical and bioinformatics tools to extract meaningful biological insights. Perform pathway analysis using specialized software and databases, as needed. Interpret complex datasets and collaborate with researchers to contextualize findings within the scope of the project. Prepare detailed reports and visualizations of data for internal review, publication in scientific journals, and in grant applications.

• Administrative Responsibilities: Maintain accurate and up-to-date laboratory records, including experimental protocols, data logs, and inventory of samples and reagents. Coordinate with the operations manager to ensure adequate supplies; ensure continuity of operations by coordinating maintenance of major instrumentation and associated ancillary equipment. Assist in the training and supervision of staff and students in metabolomics techniques and best practices. Contribute to the preparation of manuscripts, grant applications, and progress reports for funding agencies. Ensure compliance with institutional and regulatory requirements related to biosafety, data management, and ethical standards.

Qualifications

• Minimum Education and Experience: Ph.D. (or relevant terminal degree), or relevant Master’s degree with at least 5 years of formal post-degree professional work experience in the area of metabolomics.

• Other Required Qualifications: Significant experience in untargeted and targeted metabolomics, advanced separations, tandem MS, absolute quantification, IROA, credentialing, bioinformatics, and metabolome databases. Demonstrated ability to develop workflows and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Must possess exceptional communication skills, including written and verbal, be highly organized and detail-oriented. Must be able to work independently, use initiative, prioritize tasks, and anticipate potential pressure points in workflows. Ability to develop and maintain productive collaborative work relationships with all clients by listening, understanding and responding to apparent and underlying needs and continually seeking to provide the highest quality service to all.

• Preferred Qualifications: Prefer experience with lipidomics and/or mass spectrometry-based imaging. Prefer experience with integrating data from multiple-omics based approaches.