Research Scientist

About the role

Kansas City University is seeking a motivated Research Scientist to join the Dybedal Research Center on the Kansas City campus. In this role, you will contribute to innovative research investigating how noncoding RNAs regulate alternative splicing and influence embryonic development, with a focus on congenital heart defects. The position combines hands-on laboratory experimentation, molecular and developmental biology techniques, bioinformatics, data analysis, and scientific communication, offering the opportunity to make meaningful contributions in a collaborative and research-driven environment.

Responsibilities

• Culture and maintain human, animal, and embryonic cell models
• Perform molecular biology techniques, including RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, and quantitative RT-PCR
• Assist with gene and RNA expression studies using cell and embryo models
• Conduct and support developmental biology experiments using quail embryo models (training provided)
• Collect, process, and analyze biological samples for molecular and developmental research
• Perform genomic, gene expression, and bioinformatics data analysis, including RNA sequencing and statistical analysis
• Prepare figures, tables, and research data for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, databases, and research documentation
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety and research regulations
• Contribute to scientific publications, grant proposals, and laboratory presentations
• Mentor students and support a collaborative research environment while ensuring compliance with laboratory safety and research regulations
• May serve as a co-investigator on a funded research project

Requirements

• Physical dexterity sufficient to use hands, arms, and shoulders repetitively to operate a keyboard and other office equipment, use a telephone, access file cabinets and other items stored at various levels, including overhead
• Ability to speak and hear well enough to communicate clearly and understandably with sufficient volume to ensure an accurate exchange of information in normal conversational distance, over the telephone, and in a group setting
• Ability to continuously operate a personal computer for extended periods of time (4 or more hours)
• Mental acuity sufficient to collect and interpret data, evaluate, reason, define problems, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, make valid judgments and decisions

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or Master’s degree plus 4 years equivalent experience
• 5+ years’ experience working in a biomedical research laboratory

Skills

• Ability to work effectively with faculty, staff, and students, prioritizing team’s goals
• Detail-oriented, ensuring that all tasks are completed with care and precision
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with both our research team and external personnel
• Ability to analyze a situation and exercise good judgment and discretion as appropriate
• Strong working knowledge of research and experimental protocols
• Proficiency in basic computer applications, ability to leverage technology to enhance productivity and efficiency