Senior Research Specialist - Biological Sciences

About the role

Tarleton State University, a distinguished Doctoral National Comprehensive University, invites applications for the position of Senior Research Specialist in the Department of Biological Sciences. As part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and service, this role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a university that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusive growth. Join us in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on campus and beyond.

Tarleton State University continues to grow its impact across Texas, with four distinct campuses located in Stephenville, Fort Worth, RELLIS-Bryan and Waco, along with a robust online community that extends our reach even further. At the heart of it all is Stephenville, where Tarleton State offers a dynamic environment for faculty and staff. From a lively live music scene and numerous local festivals to rich traditions rooted in the surrounding community, Stephenville provides a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere. No matter where you're located on campus or online you are part of a mission that transforms lives and makes a difference across the state of Texas and beyond.

Responsibilities

• Research execution (40%): Plan, conduct, and troubleshoot experiments in molecular and cell biology, patient-derived organoid (PDO) models, immune phenotyping, and single-cell/spatial omics; analyze and interpret data; contribute to manuscripts and grant applications.
• Laboratory operations (25%): Manage procurement, inventory, vendor coordination, equipment service contracts, and budget/expenditure record-keeping across multiple funding accounts.
• Safety and compliance (15%): Serve as laboratory safety lead; maintain IBC/biosafety (BSL-2) compliance, standard operating procedures, training records, and safety documentation.
• Instrument stewardship (10%): Operate, maintain, calibrate, and schedule shared instruments (biosafety cabinet, CO₂ incubators, -80 °C ultra-low freezer, flow cytometer, and related core equipment); train and oversee authorized users.
• Supervision and mentorship (10%): Mentor and supervise graduate and undergraduate researchers; support research rotations.

Provides senior scientific leadership and day-to-day operational management of a newly established cancer research laboratory and its shared-instrument core at Tarleton State University. The position combines independent, advanced research execution with laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, instrument stewardship, and trainee supervision, ensuring research continuity and day-to-day laboratory setup as the laboratory is built out and brought online.

This is a full-time, on-site position located on Tarleton's main campus in Stephenville, Texas. Standard work hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, or as work requirements indicate. Serves as a Campus Security Authority (CSA). This is a grant-funded position supported by the Research Excellence Fund. The position may be extended beyond one year based on impact and funding availability.

Requirements

• Education and Experience: Master's degree in biomedical science, cell biology, molecular biology, cancer biology, or a related field, with substantial relevant research experience (or Ph.D. in a related field).
• Ten years related experience in the following:
  • Demonstrated hands-on expertise in mammalian cell culture, patient-derived organoid (PDO) models, flow cytometry, and core molecular assays (qPCR, nucleic-acid/protein quantification, gel and blot workflows).
  • Laboratory management and operations experience, including procurement, inventory, and instrument maintenance.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of biosafety (BSL-2) practices and regulatory compliance.
• Strong organizational, record-keeping, and communication skills, and the ability to work independently.