Research Associate

Kansas City University; Kansas City (MO); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Kansas City University is seeking a Research Associate to join the Dybedal Research Center in Kansas City. This position will conduct independent experiments, manage laboratory operations, and collaborate on scientific publications.

The ideal candidate will possess a Master’s degree in biomedical sciences, and have strong project management skills, analytical depth, and experience in cellular biology techniques. The role promotes an equal employment opportunity workplace.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or related field required; bachelor's degree with 2+ years research experience is acceptable.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental design and data analysis is essential.
• Strong project management skills and ability to collaborate with multiple stakeholders are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments, analyze data, and manage laboratory operations.
• Collaborate with faculty on manuscripts, abstracts, and grant proposals.
• Maintain accurate records of experimental results and ensure documentation.

Skills

Experimental design

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Project management

Molecular biology techniques

Cell biology techniques

Protein biochemistry

Fluorescence microscopy

Education

Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or related field

Bachelor’s degree with equivalent research experience

Tools

Scientific software

Standard office applications

Job description

Job Type: Staff

Kansas City University is seeking a Research Associate to work in the Dybedal Research Center within its Kansas City campus. The position is institutionally funded and is among the four research staff ranks at Kansas City University. This role requires a significant degree of autonomy, leadership, and analytical depth. The Research Associate will independently conduct experimental work, analyze research data, and contribute to scientific publications and presentations. The ideal candidate will bring strong academic training, practical research experience, and proven project management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct experiments, analyze data, support manuscript and poster development, and perform literature reviews and other duties as assigned.
• Manage day-to-day operations of the laboratory, including oversight of research students, equipment management, and procurement.
• Implement experimental designs aligned with the lab's research objectives and ensure research integrity and protocol adherence.
• Exercise discretion and independent judgment in conducting and interpreting research.
• Analyze complex data sets and draw informed conclusions to support research goals.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff in writing scientific manuscripts, abstracts, and grant proposals.
• Assist in the planning and execution of scholarly projects from conception to completion.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for assigned projects, tracking progress towards milestones and escalating scientific or operational issues to faculty as needed.
• Maintain clear, accurate records of experimental results and ensure proper documentation.

Supportive Functions

• Perform administrative tasks such as recordkeeping, document preparation, and filing.
• Participate in the development of departmental goals, systems, and procedures.
• Engage actively in team meetings, planning sessions, and university-wide initiatives.
• This role typically does not serve as a co-investigator or principal investigator on grants.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in biomedical sciences or a related field, or bachelor’s degree plus at least 2 years of equivalent professional research experience.
• Demonstrated expertise in experimental design, data collection and analysis, and scientific communication.
• Proven ability to manage research projects and coordinate with multiple stakeholders, including training and overseeing student researchers and junior research staff.
• Advanced knowledge of laboratory protocols, research methodologies, and compliance standards.
• Excellent analytical thinking, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in scientific software and standard office applications.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to lead and mentor others.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks and deadlines independently.
• The ideal candidate will have experience in molecular biology and cell biology techniques, protein biochemistry, and/or animal handling. Experience with fluorescence microscopy, intracellular imaging, and protein purification and protein assays is preferred.

Equal Opportunity Employer

KCU is committed to promoting an equal employment opportunity workplace. Equal opportunity is and shall be provided for all employees and applicants for employment on the basis of their demonstrated ability and competence without discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, genetic information (GINA), physical or mental disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, familial status, ancestry, military and/or veteran status, and/or any other status protected by applicable Federal, state or local law.