Postdoctoral Research Associate - McDonnell Genome Institute

Position Summary

The Mass Spectrometry Technology Access Center (MTAC) at Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis has an opening available for highly motivated applicant for the position of Postdoctoral Research Associate for immediate start. The MTAC is a recharge facility within the McDonnell Genome Institute (MGI) serving regional, national, and worldwide researchers for their multi-omics needs.  

Successful applicants for this position will be expected to work well as both a leader and a follower in a team environment and demonstrate the ability to work diligently and independently toward tangible, hypothesis-driven or discovery research goals on multiple biomedical service projects. The metabolomics specialist will participate in the design and execution of research plans under the direction of the center leadership. We are currently looking for a post-doctoral fellow with experience in global and targeted metabolomics/lipidomics analysis for absolute and relative quantifications of small molecules and lipids. Prior experience in one or more of these techniques is strongly preferred. If selected for this position, you will immediately be immersed into a dynamic research environment with multiple high-end Orbitrap mass spectrometers and all of the support equipment that one would need to be successful. In addition to mass spectrometers, successful applicants will be familiar with multidimensional liquid chromatography, data analysis software (e.g., Skyline), bioinformatics workflow, and emerging applications in the field of metabolomics. The metabolomics specialist will develop a custom assay, analyze data and present interpretations in group meetings as well as prepare manuscripts for collaborative publications in peer reviewed journals.

The postdoctoral researcher will work with a team of scientists at MTAC and collaborate with other labs. In addition to high-quality research facilities, career and professional development training for postdoctoral researchers is provided through the Career Center, Teaching Center, Office of Postdoctoral Affairs, and campus groups.

Information on being a postdoc at Washington University in St. Louis can be found at https://postdoc.wustl.edu/prospective-postdocs-2/ .

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

Trains under the supervision of a faculty mentor including (but not limited to):

• Manage core projects, including sample preparation, execution, and data analysis.
• Design research experiments, assess findings, and compile comprehensive reports.
• Maintain instruments, develop new methods, and optimize existing ones.
• Keep meticulous records of procedures and research findings.
• Demonstrate proficiency in troubleshooting instruments and methods to improve outcomes.
• Deliver scientific presentations internally and externally with exceptional oral communication skills.
• Interact professionally with collaborators and fellow research team members

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent terminal or doctoral degree.

Preferred Qualifications 

• Prior experience in one or more of these techniques: Absolute and relative quantification of small molecules and lipids, global metabolomics/lipidomics profiling.

Working Conditions

This position works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. The individual must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Salary Range

Base pay is commensurate with experience.

Applicant Special Instructions

To apply, please send your updated C.V. or resume to: [email protected]

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .

Accommodation

If you are unable to use our online application system and would like an accommodation, please email [email protected]  or call the dedicated accommodation inquiry number at 314-935-1149 and leave a voicemail with the nature of your request.

Pre-Employment Screening
All external candidates receiving an offer for employment will be required to submit to pre-employment screening for this position. The screenings will include criminal background check and, as applicable for the position, other background checks, drug screen, an employment and education or licensure/certification verification, physical examination, certain vaccinations and/or governmental registry checks. All offers are contingent upon successful completion of required screening.

Benefits Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to our employees. Benefits eligibility is subject to employment status, full-time equivalent (FTE) workload, and weekly standard hours. Please visit our website at https://hr.wustl.edu/benefits/ to view a summary of benefits.

EEO/AA Statement
Washington University in St. Louis is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity and especially encourages applications by those from underrepresented groups. It is the University’s policy to provide equal opportunity and access to persons in all job titles without regard to race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, protected veteran status, or genetic information.

Diversity Statement
Washington University is dedicated to building a diverse community of individuals who are committed to contributing to an inclusive environment – fostering respect for all and welcoming individuals from diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives. Individuals with a commitment to these values are encouraged to apply.