Research Specialist

Terminal, 24-month appointment with the possibility to be extended or converted to an ongoing appointment based on need and/or funding. This position requires work to be completed onsite at a designated campus work location.

About the role

The Kelm-Nelson laboratory in the Department of Surgery conducts preclinical Parkinson disease research. This Research Specialist supports animal breeding, research projects, and daily laboratory operations. The position manages large datasets, ensures research protocols are followed, and coordinates laboratory activities. A primary responsibility is independently leading a major longitudinal research project while working closely with undergraduate students. The role also contributes to ongoing studies through data collection, accurate record keeping, and maintaining an organized, efficient laboratory. Strong attention to detail and excellent communication skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area.
• Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders.
• Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers.
• Performs literature reviews and writes reports.
• Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences.
• Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results.
• Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials.

About the department

The Wisconsin Department of Surgery is one of the leading surgical programs in the nation, excelling in patient care, surgical education, and surgical research. We are composed of more than 130 full-time faculty across 10 divisions and nearly 200 additional staff who support our mission. Our surgeons perform almost 20,000 operations per year for pediatric and adult patients. Training the next generation of surgeons and clinician-scientists is integral in our department, with more than 100 residents and fellows trained each year. The department is consistently among the top surgery programs with extramural research funding, ranking seventh nationally in NIH funding over the last 10 years.

Requirements

• One year of lab experience.
• Experience handling rodents.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience handling large amounts of data and statistics.
• Experience with routine cellular and molecular assays.
• Experience with Microsoft products including Excel.
• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in a Biology-related field.

Pay

The starting salary for the position is $50,000; negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave.
• Competitive insurance and savings accounts.
• Retirement benefits.

For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.