Research Associate IV - Metabolomics

University of Massachusetts Medical School; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Massachusetts Medical School seeks an enthusiastic Metabolomics/Lipidomics Specialist to support metabolism-based research using high-resolution LC/MS. You will lead projects, prepare samples, optimize methods, and collaborate with researchers to generate high-quality data in a state-of-the-art core facility.

Responsibilities include LC-MS method development and data analysis with TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer and LipidSearch, while mentoring junior staff and upholding SOPs

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences or related field with 5+ years research experience, or Master’s/PhD with 3+ years.
• Experience analyzing small molecules using chromatography and mass spectrometry.
• Familiarity with high‑resolution accurate‑mass spectrometers (e.g., Orbitraps).
• Recent bench work experience and ability to prepare research reports.
• Strong verbal and written communication and collaborative mindset.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple projects with different collaborators.
• Assist with weekly LCMS instrumentation cleaning and data quality checks.
• Prepare samples for metabolomics/lipidomics experiments.
• Optimize extraction protocols.
• Assist researchers with metabolite extractions.
• Perform LC/MS/MS experiments for targeted and untargeted metabolomics.
• Analyze data using TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer and LipidSearch.
• Consult with researchers on experimental design and data interpretation.
• Produce reports and share them with collaborators.
• Supervise and train junior staff and enforce safety SOPs.
• Present data at group meetings and assist with grant writing/manuscripts.

Skills

Research experience

Team collaboration

Verbal & written communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences/biochemistry/analytical chemistry

Master’s degree or Ph.D.

Tools

Mass spectrometers

Orbitraps

LC–MS

TraceFinder

Compound Discoverer

LipidSearch

Job description

Overview

The UMass Chan Metabolomics Core Facility is seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to support metabolism-based research projects in a variety of experimental models using high-resolution, accurate-mass, liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometry. Under the direction of the Core Director you will provide professional operational support to our metabolomics and lipidomics platform by performing bench level experiments. You will collaborate with researchers in developing and applying LC/MS-based metabolomics/ lipidomics to advance their research projects. You will use discretion in prioritizing and organizing workflows. You will be expected to work independently and as part of a team to ensure high-quality data acquisition in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Serve as project lead on multiple projects with different collaborators
• Assist with weekly cleaning and calibration of LCMS instrumentation and data quality checks
• Prepare samples for metabolomics/ lipidomics experiments
• Optimize extraction protocols
• Assist researchers with metabolite extractions
• Perform LC/MS/MS experiments for targeted and untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics
• Perform data analysis using software such as TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer and LipidSearch
• Consult with researchers on experimental design and data interpretation
• Produce reports and share them with collaborators
• Participate in grant writing and manuscript preparation
• Present data at group meetings, may attend scientific conferences
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot a variety of mass spectrometers
• Develop new metabolomics/lipidomics methods and workflows when needed
• Assist with general laboratory tasks as needed
• Maintain detailed records and adhere to SOPs
• Supervise and train new laboratory personnel and junior members of the laboratory
• Serve as EHS contact and monitor and enforce laboratory safety standards
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 5+ years of relevant research experience with a bachelor’s degree in biological science/biochemistry/(analytical) chemistry or 3+ years relevant research experience with a related master's degree or Ph.D.
• Experience analyzing small molecules using chromatography and mass spectrometry
• Familiarity with high-resolution accurate-mass spectrometers (e.g. Obritraps)
• Willingness to work in a collaborative environment with an outfacing customer service acumen
• Recent bench work experience required
• Ability to prepare research reports
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to understanding scientific, experimental and or research theory

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with lipidomics (in addition to metabolomics) strongly preferred
• Experience with gas-chromatography/ NMR/ other methods of analyzing metabolism
• An understanding of the use of stable isotopes in tracing experiments
• A broad knowledge of open-source, high-resolution, accurate-mass data analysis software
• Interest in advanced data processing and analysis (use of Matlab, R, Python etc).
• Familiarity with statistical models used to analyze large datasets
• Willingness to explore and adopt AI into the metabolomics workflow

Additional Information

Environmental Working Conditions:

Wet chemistry laboratory, and may require appropriate contact with biohazards, radionuclides, toxins, animals, and human specimens.

#LI-KR1