RESEARCHER SENIOR LEAD

Position Summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Med - Pulmonary/Allergy/Critical Care, seeks a Researcher Senior Lead. This role supports the National Therapeutics Resource Institute's (NTRI) research mission in molecular medicine and gene therapy. The Researcher Senior Lead combines scientific management with technical expertise, exercising independent judgment in managing laboratory infrastructure and overseeing research projects.

General Responsibilities

• Guide the overall research strategy and oversee multiple high-impact projects.
• Lead large, interdisciplinary teams and ensure high standards of scientific excellence.
• Collaborate with faculty, research staff, vendors, and institutional partners to uphold scientific integrity and regulatory compliance.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Implement and maintain an efficient electronic system for ordering, reconciling, and inventory maintenance.
• Maintain and optimize shared laboratory infrastructure, equipment, and core workflows.
• Troubleshoot instrumentation and technical issues to minimize downtime and ensure research continuity.
• Oversee routine laboratory functions including equipment calibration, preventative maintenance scheduling, and documentation.
• Aid in developing and maintaining laboratory documentation, such as protocols for IACUC, IRB, rDNA, RAM, DEA, EHS.
• Ensure adherence to institutional and regulatory standards in daily laboratory activities.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory activities, maintenance logs, and compliance documentation.
• Onboard new laboratory staff in areas such as equipment, safety, and operational procedures.
• Provide direct day-to-day oversight of a technician and undergraduate students.
• Grow the oversight team to accommodate growth in activities.
• Assign and coordinate laboratory tasks to ensure efficient support of research activities.
• Provide hands-on training in laboratory equipment, safety, and operational procedures.
• Monitor quality and consistency of laboratory processes and outputs.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for equipment vendors and service providers.
• Coordinate service visits, preventative maintenance contracts, and equipment repairs.
• Assist in evaluating and procuring new laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Maintain documentation related to service agreements, warranties, and equipment performance.
• Support faculty and research teams by overseeing the implementation of established experimental protocols.
• Provide technical input to improve workflows and laboratory efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain alignment with research goals.
• Participate in activities involving research participants, animal models, and/or biological specimens as required.

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree in a related field and one (1) year of related experience OR Master's degree in a related field and three (3) years of related experience OR Bachelor's degree in related field and five (5) years of related experience required.
• MS, PhD, DVM, or MD degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics, Biotechnology preferred.

Salary Range

$63,875 - $90,000