Lead Research Specialist

Discover Your Career at Emory University

Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

Description

The Office of Nursing Research at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is committed to advancing scientific discoveries that improve health outcomes across diverse populations. Our research spans maternal and child health, cancer, gerontology, and the impact of climate on health.

We are seeking a Lead Research Specialist to join our highly skilled Laboratory Team. This in-person role offers a unique opportunity to support the research efforts of our entire faculty, rather than being tied to a single principal investigator. As part of a collaborative and supportive environment, you will contribute to a wide range of impactful studies. This position is not supported by the School of Nursing and is not dependent on grant funding.

Join a team that values excellence, collaboration, and innovation. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to be part of a meaningful research community making a real difference.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under minimal supervision, performs a variety of specialized and complex research and laboratory tests and procedures.
• Uses independent judgment in applying or adapting scientific techniques.
• May assist in protocol design.
• Investigates and proposes alternative experimental procedures for consideration by a principal investigator.
• Assists in planning and scheduling research procedures.
• Analyzes and interprets results of studies.
• Demonstrates and trains others in the proper use/operation of laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Calibrates, troubleshoots and performs routine repair and maintenance of equipment.
• Reviews literature for related research developments and techniques and compiles findings.
• Monitors laboratory processes to maintain quality assurance standards.
• Records results of studies, compiles and analyzes data and prepares charts and graphs.
• Monitors the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.
• Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

ADDITIONAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work with undergraduate and graduate students, providing training and oversight for the use of laboratory space for experiential learning.
• Perform phlebotomy for research teams with active research grants. Phlebotomy training will be provided.
• On call for lab emergency situations.
• Shipping and receiving samples.
• Perform laboratory techniques such as ELISA assays, PCR, and spectrophotometry.
• Support multiple research projects across various disciplines.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and students in a dynamic research setting.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field and two years of research experience, or equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong foundational laboratory skills and attention to detail.
• Willing and eager to learn new techniques and contribute to diverse research initiatives.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Interest in building a long-term career with opportunities for growth and advancement.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD).

Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at [email protected] or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.