Research Scientist

Note for Current UM Employees

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

Position Description

The position of Research Scientist I within the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.  The primary responsibilities will encompass: 1) Conducting experimental research in the field of analytical chemistry; 2) Providing managerial oversight and research guidance and training, not only to bachelor's-level chemists but also to graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, with a focus on imparting best practices in research methods and instrumentation; 3) Supporting research proposals for submission to external funding sources, including federal agencies and private foundations, and subsequently managing the awarded grants in partnership with Sponsored Programs.

Chemistry is often referred to as the central science, bridging the gap between physics and biology and underpinning many of the other scientific disciplines. The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry serves the State of Mississippi and the nation by providing undergraduate and graduate students educational excellence in chemical sciences, conducting research that contributes to new knowledge, and catalyzing economic development.  We aspire to be a leading force for advancing society through the continuous pursuit of educational excellence and cutting-edge research in the traditional areas of chemistry (physical, analytical, biochemistry, inorganic, organic, and chemical education) as well as exciting new collaborative areas such as renewable energy, astrochemistry, and nanomaterials. We are a complex department with 24 full-time faculty, approximately 50 graduate students, and 4 undergraduate majors. The department is highly collaborative, sharing interests and expertise, and faculty hold multiple externally-funded grants to conduct state-of-the-art research.  

Position Details

Appointment:12 month

The Research Scientist I in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry plays a critical role in advancing analytical chemistry research while providing leadership and mentorship within the laboratory environment. The position is responsible for designing and executing experimental research, developing new analytical methodologies, and supporting the Nano-Bio Immunoengineering Consortium’s (NIEC). In addition to leading scientific inquiry, this role provides research guidance and professional development for undergraduate chemists, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers. The Research Scientist I also collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams, offering expertise in analytical instrumentation, troubleshooting, and experimental design, and supports the development of best practices in laboratory operations and compliance.

Minimum Qualifications

A Ph.D. and two years of related experience.

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.

Examples of Work Performed

• Works closely and proactively with the P.I., Department Chair, and Operations Manager to efficiently and effectively direct the Tanner Lab and the NIEC Consortium (https://chemistry.olemiss.edu).
• Design and conduct analytical chemistry experiments using instruments such as HPLC, GC-MS, FTIR, and ICP-MS to support departmental and consortium research projects.
• Troubleshoot, calibrate, and maintain complex analytical instruments to ensure consistent and accurate experimental results.
• Develop and document new analytical methodologies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for laboratory users.
• Mentor and train undergraduate chemists, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers in research methods, instrument operation, and best laboratory practices through weekly one-on-one and group meetings.
• Coordinate the scheduling, maintenance, and user access for Core Facility instrumentation valued at approximately $2 million.
• Draft technical content for grant proposals, including experimental plans, instrumentation descriptions, and preliminary data, using Microsoft Office, ChemDraw, and OriginLab.
• Collaborate with the Office of Research and Sponsored Programs to prepare and submit grant proposals using electronic research administration systems like Cayuse and Grants.gov.
• Monitor and manage awarded research grant budgets using institutional financial systems such as SAP, ensuring compliance with expenditure guidelines and reporting deadlines.
• Prepare and submit progress reports and financial reports for federal agencies (e.g., NSF, NIH) and private foundations.
• Lead regular laboratory safety inspections and update safety protocols to ensure compliance with university, OSHA, NIH, and DEA requirements.
• Deliver laboratory safety training sessions using platforms such as BioRAFT and CITI to new laboratory members and maintain training records.
• Manage ordering of laboratory supplies and scientific equipment by soliciting quotes, negotiating with vendors, submitting sole-source justifications, and approving purchases.
• Consult with laboratory users—including undergraduate students, graduate students, postdocs, and visiting researchers—to customize experimental designs and troubleshoot technical issues.
• Lead or participate in weekly lab meetings to coordinate research activities, discuss experimental progress, and align on project timelines.
• Work with interdisciplinary collaborators across departments and institutions to support Nano-Bio Immunoengineering Consortium (NIEC) initiatives and projects.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

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 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, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship, age, disability, military status, protected veteran status, or genetic information, or any other legally protected status.