Scientist II

University of Kentucky; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 53,000 - 88,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Kentucky is seeking a Scientist II in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry to develop vertebrate models of heritable diseases using zebrafish and to define signaling protein functions during embryonic development.

The role emphasizes independent research, zebrafish husbandry, writing, and laboratory compliance oversight, with a strong publication record and experience in RNA-seq analyses.

Qualifications

• PhD in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related discipline.
• Extensive zebrafish husbandry, embryo work and related methods.
• Proven publication record and ability to work independently.
• Experience analyzing RNA-seq and ssRNA-seq datasets.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and publish findings.
• Zebrafish husbandry, embryo work and related activities.
• Oversee lab management and compliance oversight.

Skills

Zebrafish husbandry

Zebrafish embryo work

Molecular biology techniques

RNA-seq data analysis

Education

PhD in Developmental Biology

Tools

RNA-seq analysis tools

Job description

Department Name 7H180:Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry

Work Location

Work Location Lexington, KY

Grade Level 46

Salary Range

Salary Range $53,061-87,526/year

Type of Position

Type of Position Staff

Position Time Status

Position Time Status Full-Time

Required Education

PhD

Required License/Registration/Certification

None

Physical Requirements

Occasional repetitive motion, sitting and/or standing for long periods of time

Shift

Day shift. Some evenings and weekends as necessary.

Job Summary

A Scientist II position is available in the Department of Molecular & Cellular Biochemistry, University of Kentucky (http://www.mc.uky.edu/biochemistry/). The role will focus on developing vertebrate models of heritable diseases in zebrafish and defining functional roles for signaling proteins in embryonic development. Key responsibilities include conducting research, zebrafish husbandry, writing, and lab management/compliance oversight.

The candidate should have a PhD in Developmental Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a related disipline. Additionally the candidate should have extensive prior experience working with zebrafish (husbandry, embryo work and varios zebrafish-related methods), a proven record of productivity in terms of scientific publication, experience analyzing either RNA -seq and ssRNA-seq data sets, experience with standard moleculary biology techniques, the ability to work indepedently and provide training to graduate students and technical staff.

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Molecular Biology, zebrafish husbandry and related methodology experience.

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No

Preferred Education/Experience

PhD and six years experience.

Deadline to Apply

Deadline to Apply 11/15/2026

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.

Posting Specific Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).