RESEARCHER SENIOR

University of Alabama at Birmingham; University (FL); On-site; USD 60,835 - 98,855; Full time

Job summary

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is seeking a Senior Researcher for their Neurosurgical Laboratory Research. This role involves overseeing complex research projects, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring quality and integrity in research outcomes. Candidates should hold at least a Doctorate in a relevant field, with experience preferred in cancer biology and lab techniques.

The position offers a salary range of $60,835 to $98,855 and focuses on a collaborative, innovative research environment.

Qualifications

• Experience with human specimens and animal models required depending on project needs.
• Proficiency in wet lab techniques and data analysis is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Design and oversee complex theoretical and experimental research projects.
• Analyze complex research data and prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Author manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Provide strategic direction for research initiatives.
• Mentor and train junior researchers and laboratory personnel.

Skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Ability to manage time effectively

Excellent interpersonal skills

Education

Doctorate degree in a related field

Master's degree in a related field with 2 years experience

Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 4 years experience

Job description

Job Description – RESEARCHER SENIOR (T236812)

The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Neurosurg‑Laboratory Research, is in search of a Researcher Senior to join their team. The Senior Researcher is a professional‑level scientific position responsible for providing advanced research expertise and leadership in the design, execution, and management of complex research initiatives. This position supports the Department of Neurosurgery’s research mission by providing advanced scientific expertise in translational and laboratory‑based research. This role oversees multiple research projects, contributes strategic direction to laboratory operations, and ensures the integrity, quality, and successful completion of research objectives.

The Senior Researcher will be expected to work independently while collaborating with faculty, trainees, and multidisciplinary research teams to advance ongoing research initiatives. The Senior Researcher serves as a subject matter expert, mentors junior research personnel, manages project resources, and contributes to the dissemination of scientific discoveries through publications, presentations, and intellectual property development. Depending on the research focus, the position may involve interactions with research collaborators, research animals, and/or biological specimens. The role requires the ability to manage complex projects, contribute to scientific publications and grant‑related activities, and support the development of innovative research methodologies. Experience working with human specimens, animal models, and regulatory compliance in a research environment may be required depending on project needs.

General Responsibilities

As a Researcher Senior, you will have expanded responsibilities, overseeing complex or multiple research projects and providing strategic direction. This professional‑level role involves mentoring junior researchers, managing project budgets, and ensuring the integrity and quality of research outcomes. Your expertise will be critical in guiding experimental design, data interpretation, and contributing to high‑impact publications. Depending on the research focus, this position may involve research collaborator contact, research animal contact, and/or specimens.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and oversee complex theoretical and experimental research projects directed toward the acquisition of new scientific knowledge; develop and implement research methodologies, experimental protocols, and study designs, providing scientific leadership and technical expertise to ensure successful project outcomes.
• Analyze complex research data, interpret findings using advanced scientific methods, and prepare comprehensive technical reports, protocols, summaries, quantitative analyses, and research documentation; ensure the accuracy, integrity, and reproducibility of research results.
• Author and co‑author manuscripts for publication in peer‑reviewed scientific journals; present research findings at national and international scientific conferences and professional forums; document discoveries and innovations that may lead to patent disclosures, technical advancements, or other intellectual property.
• Provide strategic direction for research initiatives and serve as project or team lead; coordinate research activities, project timelines, and resource allocation to ensure efficient project execution; assist in managing project budgets and research deliverables.
• Mentor and train junior researchers, laboratory personnel, students, and trainees; collaborate with internal and external research partners, investigators, and stakeholders to advance research objectives; facilitate teamwork and knowledge sharing across multidisciplinary research groups.
• Identify opportunities to improve research processes, methodologies, and operational efficiency; solve complex and recurring scientific and technical challenges through innovative approaches and critical analysis.
• Ensure compliance with institutional policies, regulatory requirements, and research protocols; may involve contact with research collaborators, research animals, and/or biological specimens, depending on research focus.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Salary Range

$60,835–$98,855

Qualifications

• Doctorate degree in a related field, OR Master's degree in a related field and two (2) years of related experience, OR Bachelor’s degree in a related field and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• Master’s Degree in Biochemistry or Chemistry, Neuroscience, Biomedical Sciences, Genetics, Laboratory Science, or Biotechnology
• Experience in cancer biology and signaling, animal models for cancer, or related biomedical research
• Proficiency in wet lab techniques and data analysis

Key Skills

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage time effectively, work independently, and troubleshoot experimental issues
• Excellent interpersonal skills

UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, and veteran’s status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB’s Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.

Primary Location

University

Job Category

Scientific Research

Organization

311363000 Neurosurg-Laboratory Research

Employee Status

Regular

Shift: Day/1st Shift

Work Arrangement (final schedule to be determined by the department/hiring manager): Onsite