Research Specialist, Metabolomics - Roy J. Carver Biotechnology Center

Laboratory Sample Processing

• Prepare biological and environmental samples for metabolomics analysis.
• Perform metabolite extractions from tissues, cells, plasma, serum, urine, microbial cultures, plant materials, and other complex sample matrices.
• Prepare calibration standards, internal standards, blanks, and quality control samples.
• Perform sample concentration, cleanup, and purification procedures as needed, including solvent evaporation and solid-phase extraction techniques.
• Organize and prepare analytical sample batches for LC-MS/MS analysis.

LC-MS/MS Analysis

• Operate LC-MS/MS instrumentation for targeted and untargeted metabolomics analyses.
• Prepare analytical sequences and verify instrument readiness prior to sample analysis.
• Monitor instrument performance and analytical quality during project execution.
• Affix routine instrument maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.
• Review quality control samples and analytical performance metrics to ensure data quality.

Facility Operations

• Maintain laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumables.
• Maintain required laboratory safety training and adhere to university safety policies and procedures.
• Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.

Duties & Responsibilities

Work closely with senior scientific staff to implement analytical approaches appropriate for individual projects.

Adjust extraction procedures, dilution factors, calibration ranges, and quality control strategies based on sample characteristics and anticipated analyte concentrations.

Affix project support by assisting with planning and execution of metabolomics projects to ensure timely completion of analyses.

Communicate effectively with facility personnel regarding project requirements and laboratory progress.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
• A minimum of one year of relevant laboratory experience involving biological sample preparation, analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS instrumentation.
• Experience with metabolomics, lipidomics, proteomics, bioanalysis, natural products, or related mass spectrometry applications.
• Experience preparing biological samples for mass spectrometry-based analyses including SPE.
• Experience working in a collaborative research laboratory, core facility, contract research organization, or similar analytical environment.
• Experience preparing calibration standards, internal standards, and quality control samples.
• Familiarity with one or more of the following software platforms: Agilent MassHunter, Waters MassLynx, Thermo Xcalibur, SCIEX Analyst, SCIEX OSMS-DIAL.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $58,000 to $65,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Monday, September 14, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Qualified candidates must upload: 1) a cover letter which details qualifications noted above; 2) resume or CV; and 3) the names and contact information for three professional references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Contact Information

For further information about this specific position, please contact Leslie Lewin Reinhart at 217-333-0034. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.