Senior Scientist - DeFigueiredo Lab

University of Missouri-Columbia; Columbia Township (MO); On-site; USD 58,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading research lab at the University of Missouri-Columbia as a Senior Scientist. Contribute to groundbreaking microbial research aimed at developing safe therapies for cancer and autoimmune diseases. The role involves advanced molecular techniques and collaboration on DARPA-funded projects. Ideal candidates will have strong organizational and communication skills, and a commitment to impactful research in a dynamic environment.

Benefits

Health Plans

Retirement

Paid Leave

Disability

Parental Leave

Educational Discounts

Qualifications

• At least 4 years of related experience.
• Significant postdoctoral experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop bacterial therapy to combat cancer and autoimmune diseases.
• Utilize advanced techniques to study pathogenesis in fungi and bacterial pathogens.

Skills

Organizational Skills

Communication

Critical Thinking

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field

Tools

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq)

Molecular Techniques

Cell Biological Techniques

Job description

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About Us

The Bond Life Sciences Center at the University of Missouri is a dynamic hub where groundbreaking research meets real-world impact. Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration, our state-of-the-art facility brings together experts in diverse fields—engineers, cancer biologists, plant scientists, and IT specialists—all working towards a common goal: to save lives, reduce costs, and enhance everyday life for Missourians and people around the globe.

Hiring Department

Life Sciences Center

Our Mission

We are committed to transforming scientific discoveries into actionable solutions. Our innovative research addresses pressing challenges in human and animal health, the environment, and agriculture, translating into meaningful improvements in lives worldwide. We also share our findings broadly through blogs, public events, social media, and more.

Why Join Us?

At the Bond Life Sciences Center, you’ll be part of a vibrant community dedicated to making a difference. Our collaborative environment supports innovative research and ensures discoveries benefit society. Work in an award-winning facility designed for creativity and impact, contributing to a mission that truly changes lives.

Watch our latest video: Research at Mizzou

Job Description

Dr. Paul de Figueiredo’s lab seeks an experienced Senior Scientist interested in using microbes to combat cancer and autoimmune diseases. The goal is to develop an inexpensive, safe bacterial therapy that recruits and regulates tumor-targeting immune cells to fight cancer without traditional medication side effects. The research also involves experiments related to microbe-influenced corrosion in lab mice colonies.

The successful candidate will utilize advanced molecular, cell biological, and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) techniques to study pathogenesis in fungi and bacterial pathogens, analyze data, and collaborate on interdisciplinary projects funded by DARPA. Strong organizational, communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills are essential, along with integrity and confidentiality. Must be available for onsite work.

This is an 18-month, at-will position contingent on funding, with a fast-paced hiring process to meet project timelines.

Join us in advancing science and improving lives—your expertise could unlock groundbreaking microbial research discoveries!

Shift

Monday - Friday, 8AM - 5PM, with some nights and weekends.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least 4 years of related experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Ph.D. in microbiology, molecular biology, or related field, with significant postdoctoral experience.
• Expertise in bacteriology, microbiology, plant pathology, and drug discovery.
• Knowledge of molecular and cell biological techniques, especially in pathogenesis.
• Experience leading research projects and mentoring junior staff.
• Strong publication and presentation record, with excellent analytical and communication skills.

Anticipated Salary Range: $58,572.80 - $83,304.00 per year

University Title: Senior Scientist

Application Materials: Cover letter & Resume/CV

Community Information

Columbia offers a friendly, high-quality living environment, with a vibrant cultural scene, affordable cost of living, and proximity to major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City.

Benefit Eligibility

This position is eligible for university benefits, including health plans, retirement, paid leave, disability, parental leave, and educational discounts. More info at Total Rewards.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA accommodations available upon request.