Research Scientist

Note for Current UM Employees

Current employees must apply internally via connectU > connectu.olemiss.edu

Position Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Research Scientist with a strong background in cannabis chemistry and the analysis of cannabis metabolites. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in our research efforts focused on analyzing, isolating, and elucidating the structures of cannabis metabolites—including cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds—with a strong emphasis on developing and validating innovative analytical methods.

Location: National Center for Natural; Products Research, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi

Responsibilities:

• Development and validation of analytical methods using chromatographic (GC/FID, HPLC) and spectroscopic (GC/MS) techniques for the characterization of cannabis and cannabis-related products, including cannabinoids and terpenes.

• Analyze contaminants such as aflatoxins and solvent residues.

• Conduct stability studies for cannabis extracts and related products to assess their shelf-life, degradation profiles, and overall quality over time.

• Perform GMP and non-GMP production of cannabis extracts and cannabinoids.

• Perform quality control testing to ensure that cannabis standards and products meet quality standards for botanical products, including testing for aflatoxins and solvent residues.

• Mentorship of graduate and undergraduate students

• Preparing research results and writing grant reports.

• Contribute to cutting-edge projects in cannabis chemistry including preparing and writing manuscripts, review articles, and book chapters for publication.

• Assisting in grant writing.

• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.

• The position is available for one year with the possibility of renewal (contingent upon availability of funding).

Minimum Qualifications

• A Ph.D. in Analytical Chemistry or a related field is required.

• Have at least 3 years of experience in cannabis analysis and cannabis chemistry.

• Proven track record in developing and validating innovative analytical methods for cannabis analysis and cannabis chemistry.

• Proficiency in chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques such as GC/FID, GC/MS and  HPLC

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Interview Requirements: Any candidate who is called for an interview must notify the Department of Equal Opportunity/Regulatory Compliance in writing of any reasonable accommodation needed prior to the date of the interview.

Position Details

Appointment: 12 month

Assignment Type: Non-Tenure Track

About the University of MS & Oxford, MS

Founded in 1848, the University of Mississippi (UM), affectionately known to alumni, students and friends as Ole Miss, is Mississippi's flagship university. Included in the elite group of R-1: Doctoral Universities - Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, it has a long history of producing leaders in public service, academics and business. The University of Mississippi, consistently named by The Chronicle of Higher Education as a “Great College to Work For,” is located in Oxford, MS, which is ranked one of the “Top 10 Best College Towns.” With more than 24,000 students, UM is the state's largest university and is ranked among the nation's fastest-growing institutions. The University of Mississippi, which has aggressively implemented many health and wellness initiatives for its more than 2,900 employees, has consistently been named one of Mississippi’s Healthiest Workplaces.

Touted as the “Cultural Mecca of the South”, creativity abounds in Oxford as musicians, artists and writers alike find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, small town charm and creative community. Oxford is a one-hour drive south of Memphis, TN and is known as the home of Nobel Prize winning author William Faulkner. Over the years Oxford has also been known for offering exceptional culinary experiences and as the home of the University of Mississippi and the Ole Miss Rebels, there is always something here to immerse yourself in. Oxford has also been featured as a literary and arts destination in such publications as The New York Times, Southern Living, Condé Nast Traveler, and GQ. Among other cultural activities, annual events include the Oxford Film Festival, a thriving local music scene, and the Ford Center Performing Arts Series. Oxford is a vibrant university town, filled with unique shops and galleries, eclectic restaurants and clubs, historic landmarks, and comfortable inns.

Background Check Statement

The University of Mississippi is committed to providing a safe campus community. UM conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.

EEO Statement

The University of Mississippi provides equal opportunity in any employment practice, education program, or education activity to all qualified persons. The University complies with all applicable laws regarding equal opportunity and affirmative action and does not unlawfully discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based upon race, color, gender, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, citizenship, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or genetic information.