Principal Research Scientist

University of Kentucky; United States; On-site; USD 74,000 - 122,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center, within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food & Environment, seeks a highly motivated Principal Research Scientist to support research initiatives at the Aged Horse Research Center in Lexington, KY.

The role will lead planning, coordination and execution of scientific research, oversee daily lab operations, manage the lab budget, and contribute to grant development and funding efforts, collaborating with faculty and researchers

Qualifications

• PhD required for this research leadership role.
• At least 3 years of related research experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, coordination and execution of scientific research at the Aged Horse Research Center.
• Oversee daily laboratory operations and manage the lab budget.
• Contribute to grant development and funding efforts through collaboration with faculty and researchers.

Education

PhD

Job description

Working Title

Posting Details

Job Title: Principal Research Scientist

Requisition Number: RE56353

Department Name: 81140:Veterinary Science

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

Click here for more information about equivalencies: https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies

Required Related Experience: 3 yrs

Required License/Registration/Certification: None

Physical Requirements: Sit at computer for long periods, lift, push, pull objects up to 50 pounds.

Shift: Weekdays (typically Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm EST) with evening and weekends as needed.

Job Summary

The Department of Veterinary Science’s Gluck Equine Research Center within the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food & Environment is seeking a highly motivated Principal Research Scientist to support research initiatives at the Aged Horse Research Center.

This position will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of scientific research while overseeing daily laboratory operations, managing the lab budget, and contributing to grant development and funding efforts.

About The Role

This position will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of scientific research while overseeing daily laboratory operations, managing the lab budget, and contributing to grant development and funding efforts. The successful candidate will collaborate with faculty, researchers, and other stakeholders to advance research objectives, support ongoing projects, and promote the continued growth and success of the Aged Horse Research Center.

Why Join Us

At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, you’ll find a community that values collaboration, growth, and recognition. Benefits of joining our team include:

• Exceptional benefits package.
• A formal mentoring program to support your professional development
• Access to a staff development fund for continued learning and skill building
• Dedicated staff recognition programs that celebrate your contributions
• A shared commitment to making the University of Kentucky the University of, for, and with Kentucky

Join us in shaping the future of teaching and learning—where innovation meets impact.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Deadline to Apply: 11/09/2026

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.