Research Assistant - Nutrition Science

The Neuromuscular Research Laboratory (NMRL)/Warrior Human Performance Research Center (WHPRC), a state-of-the-science laboratory encompassing 11,600 square feet of space and features state-of-the-science capabilities in exercise physiology, metabolism and nutrition (indirect calorimetry), bone adaptation, and morphology (HRpQCT and DEXA), exercise biochemistry, strength, and performance assessments.

The mission of the NMRL/WHPR is to optimize human performance and mitigate musculoskeletal injuries by conducting innovative, multi-disciplinary, basic, and applied research providing evidence and translating scientific knowledge, enhancing clinical decisions and education. This research will lead to improved quality of life and resiliency in athletic, military, active, and diseased populations. Our vision is to be internationally recognized as a premier academic research center and its faculty as thought leaders in human health and performance optimization and musculoskeletal injury prevention. For more information on the University of Pittsburgh NMRL/WHPRC see http://www.nmrl.pitt.edu/ .

Assists with and/or conducts laboratory experiments and routine tests and scientific tasks. Performs data and specimen collection and processing as well as equipment maintenance and set up. Ensures adherence to all established protocols and regulatory practices.

Assists with and/or conducts laboratory experiments and routine tests and scientific tasks on research projects studying the physiological and biochemical mechanisms underlying body composition, cardiometabolic, and multi-omics adaptations in response to nutrition, exercise training, and cognitive interventions. Performs data and specimen collection and processing as well as equipment maintenance and set up. Ensures adherence to all established protocols and regulatory practices.

• Assists and/or conducts laboratory experiments in a research setting, including metabolic, body composition, multi-omics, biochemical biomarker analysis, and musculoskeletal training and imaging.
• Supports research studies and experiments, including data collection, specimen collection and processing, equipment set up, and maintenance of equipment.
• Adheres to all established protocols and regulatory practices.
• Performs a variety of routine scientific tasks, including testing, basic examinations of research subjects, initial data analysis and interpretation, and operates standard laboratory equipment.
• Records data providing basic analysis and interpretations in an accurate and timely manner.
• Maintains databases.

The job duties outlined in this job description include common job responsibilities for this title and level of jobs and are not intended to cover every duty. The University reserves the right to assign other duties to employees that are not listed in this job description.

BA/BS in Nutrition, Physiology or related field of study preferred.

Moderate physical effort required. May be required to stand/move for several hours at a time. May be required to move objects up to 50 pounds with or without assistance of equipment.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.