Lead Proteomics Scientist

University of Kentucky; Lexington (VA); On-site; USD 73,861 - 121,888; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky invites applications for a Lead Proteomics Scientist to lead the Mass Spectrometry Core. You will develop advanced proteomics workflows, oversee data quality, and collaborate with investigators across disciplines to design experiments and deliver high-impact data.

This role requires a PhD and 5+ years of experience in LC-MS/MS proteomics, with hands-on expertise in high-resolution mass spectrometry, data analysis, and method development.

Qualifications

• : PhD required.
• : 5+ years related proteomics experience.
• : Experience with LC-MS/MS and proteomics workflows.
• : Strong data interpretation and collaboration skills.
• : Ability to lead a core facility and manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement discovery, quantitative, targeted, and specialized proteomics workflows
• Design and optimize LC-MS/MS methods and data analysis pipelines
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot mass spectrometry instrumentation
• Conduct proteomics experiments including sample prep and quantitative analyses
• Consult with investigators on study design and analytical strategies
• Support manuscript preparation, grant applications, and collaborative efforts
• Evaluate emerging technologies and incorporate into core services
• Maintain quality control and laboratory compliance

Skills

LC-MS/MS proteomics

High-resolution MS

Proteomics data analysis

Experimental design & data

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Project management

Scientific writing

Innovative technologies

Education

PhD

Tools

Orbitrap mass spectrometers

Thermo Scientific instruments (Orbitrap Exploris/Ascend/Altis)

Job description

Working Title

Job Title Lead Proteomics Scientist

Requisition Number RE55208

Department Name 40836:Mass Spectrometry Service Center

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 49

Salary Range $73,861-121,888/year

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education PhD

Required Related Experience 5 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification None

Physical Requirements lifting, pushing, or pulling of objects up to 50 lbs

Shift Monday – Friday; 8:00 am-5:00 pm; and occasional nights & weekends as needed.

Job Summary

Advance Proteomics Research with Cutting-Edge Mass Spectrometry Technologies

The University of Kentucky is seeking a Lead Proteomics Scientist to provide scientific leadership for proteomics services within the Mass Spectrometry Core.

This role will lead the development of advanced proteomics workflows, support collaborative research programs, and expand the university’s mass spectrometry capabilities. The successful candidate will work closely with investigators across multiple disciplines to design experiments, generate high-quality data, and advance impactful research initiatives.

What You’ll Do

• Develop and implement discovery, quantitative, targeted, and specialized proteomics workflows
• Design and optimize LC-MS/MS methods and data analysis pipelines
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot advanced mass spectrometry instrumentation
• Conduct proteomics experiments, including sample preparation and quantitative analyses
• Consult with investigators on study design, analytical strategies, and data interpretation
• Support manuscript preparation, grant applications, and collaborative research efforts
• Evaluate emerging technologies and incorporate new approaches into core services
• Maintain quality control standards, laboratory compliance, and operational excellence

What You’ll Bring

• Expertise in LC-MS/MS-based proteomics and quantitative proteomics methodologies
• Experience with high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms and proteomics data analysis software
• Strong background in experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific collaboration
• Experience supporting multidisciplinary research teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Excellent communication and scientific writing skills
• Commitment to advancing research through innovative technologies and best practices

Minimum Requirements

• Ph.D.
• 5+ years of related experience

What’s In It For You

• Meaningful impact: Support research that advances scientific discovery and human health
• Scientific leadership: Help shape the future of proteomics capabilities at the University of Kentucky
• Collaborative environment: Partner with researchers across a wide range of disciplines
• Cutting-edge technology: Work with state-of-the-art mass spectrometry platforms and analytical tools
• Professional growth: Engage with national leaders, emerging technologies, and high-impact research programs
• UK’s Exceptional Benefits

Why Now?

Proteomics is playing an increasingly important role in understanding complex biological systems, identifying therapeutic targets, and supporting translational research. As demand for advanced proteomics services continues to grow, the university is investing in the expertise and technologies needed to support next-generation research initiatives.

In this role, you’ll help expand scientific capabilities, strengthen collaborative research programs, and provide investigators with the tools and expertise needed to answer challenging biological questions. Your contributions will directly support the growth of the Mass Spectrometry Core and the success of research programs across the university.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Experience developing and executing quantitative proteomics data analysis workflows using standard software tools.

Strong record of scientific achievement demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications arising from collaborative proteomics projects.

Excellent communication skills and a demonstrated commitment to supporting a diverse research community across disciplines.

Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects, maintain accurate records, and meet deliverable timelines across a diverse investigator user base.

Familiarity with NIH Genomic Data Sharing Policy, HIPAA -compliant handling of human research samples, and relevant IRB considerations.

Experience with long-read or top-down proteomics approaches, or multi-omics data integration.

Experience developing or contributing to cost-recovery pricing structures for core facility services.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience

Minimum of 5 years of proteomics experience beyond the Ph.D. (e.g., post-doctoral research, industry scientist role, or academic core facility position).

Demonstrated expertise in LC-MS–based proteomics, including hands-on experience with modern Orbitrap or equivalent high-resolution mass spectrometry platforms.

Experience with Thermo Scientific instrumentation, including Orbitrap Exploris, Ascend, and Altis platforms.

Proficiency in at least three major proteomics workflow types: discovery proteomics ( DDA and/or DIA ), quantitative proteomics ( TMT , SILAC , or LFQ ), targeted proteomics ( PRM / MRM ), or PTM analysis.

Deadline to Apply

08/23/2026

Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus. The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status. Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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