Researcher Senior

Position Summary

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

• Research Design, Execution, and Scientific Investigation: Independently designs, conducts, and oversees complex theoretical and experimental research projects directed toward the acquisition of new scientific knowledge. Develops and implements research methodologies, experimental protocols, and study designs. Provides scientific leadership and technical expertise to ensure successful project outcomes.

• Data Analysis, Interpretation, and Reporting: Analyzes complex research data and interprets findings using advanced scientific methods. Prepares comprehensive technical reports, protocols, summaries, quantitative analyses, and research documentation. Ensures the accuracy, integrity, and reproducibility of research results.

• Scholarly Publications, Presentations, and Scientific Advancement: Authors and co-authors manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Presents research findings at national and international scientific conferences and professional forums. Documents discoveries and innovations that may lead to patent disclosures, technical advancements, or other intellectual property.

• Research Leadership and Project Management: Provides strategic direction for research initiatives and may serve as project or team lead. Coordinates research activities, project timelines, and resource allocation to ensure efficient project execution. Assists in managing project budgets and research deliverables.

• Mentorship, Training, and Collaboration: Mentors and trains junior researchers, laboratory personnel, students, and trainees. Collaborates with internal and external research partners, investigators, and stakeholders to advance research objectives. Facilitates teamwork and knowledge sharing across multidisciplinary research groups.

• Process Improvement and Problem Solving: Identifies opportunities to improve research processes, methodologies, and operational efficiency. Solves complex and recurring scientific and technical challenges through innovative approaches and critical analysis.

• Regulatory Compliance and Research Support Activities: Ensures 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 related field and four (4) years of related experience required. Work experience may NOT substitute for education requirement.

Preferences

• Master's Degree 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.