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Research Specialist

University of Wisconsin Madison
sick time
United States, Wisconsin, Madison
21 North Park Street (Show on map)
Jan 08, 2026
Current Employees: If you are currently employed at any of the Universities of Wisconsin, log in to Jobs Hub to apply through the internal application process. Job Category:Academic Staff Employment Type:Regular Job Profile:Research Specialist Job Summary:

The Research Specialist will work with the principal investigator and lab staff in the Keck Laboratory within the Biomolecular Chemistry Department to establish a robust research program in protein structure and function. Work in the laboratory focuses on the molecular mechanisms of DNA metabolism and involves molecular biology, structural biology, biochemistry, genetics, and genomics. Personal initiative, independence, strong organizational abilities and enthusiasm for laboratory research are essential. The successful candidate will conduct independent research under the guidance of the PIs involving molecular biology (cloning, subcloning, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis), protein expression (bacterial protein expression and purification), protein crystallography (crystallization and X-ray diffraction), and electron microscopy. Additional responsibilities include: biological, chemical and radiation safety lab duties, ordering supplies, maintaining laboratory records, preparation of some laboratory reagents, maintaining laboratory equipment, supervising student (hourly) workers, and training laboratory staff in techniques and protocols. It is expected that the research specialist will be an active participant in the lab, attend and present at regular group meetings, and prepare portions of scientific manuscripts on which she/he will be a co-author.

Key Job Responsibilities:
  • Operates, cleans, and maintains organization of research equipment and research area. Tracks inventory levels and places replenishment orders
  • Provides operational guidance on day-to-day activities of unit or program staff and/or student workers
  • Conducts research experiments according to established research protocols with moderate impact to the project(s). Collects data and monitors test results
  • Participates in the development, interpretation, and implementation of research methodology and materials
  • Reviews, analyzes, and interprets data and/or documents results for presentations and/or reporting to internal and external audiences
  • Performs literature reviews and writes reports
Department:

School of Medicine and Public Health, Department of Biomolecular Chemistry, Keck Laboratory

The mission of the Department of Biomolecular Chemistry (BMC) is to carry out world class research that addresses molecular mechanisms of biological processes, particularly as it relates to human disease, and to disseminate that knowledge through teaching and training of future scientists, physicians, and health science professionals. The advancement and transmission of knowledge is part of the broader mission of the School of Medicine and Public Health (SMPH) and the University. Additionally, BMC faculty members provide service and expert advice to the SMPH and other units of the University, and the state, nation, and world. In its research, teaching, service, and outreach efforts alike, BMC is committed to building a community that is open to and accepting of all. For the past century, the Department of Biomolecular Chemistry has excelled in research, teaching and service as a proud member of the School of Medicine and Public Health. Our research is at the forefront of biochemical research, integrating fundamental molecular mechanisms with human disease. Our key strengths in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Genomics, and Development make us a nexus for collaborative studies between basic scientists and clinicians.

This position is full or part-time, 80% - 100%.

This position requires work to be completed onsite, at a designated campus work location.

Compensation:

The starting salary for the position is $47,000; but is negotiable based on experience and qualifications.

Employees in this position can expect to receive benefits such as generous vacation, holidays, and sick leave; competitive insurances and savings accounts; retirement benefits. For more information, refer to the campus benefits webpage.

  • SMPH Academic Staff Benefits Flyer

Required Qualifications:
  • At least 1 year of experience working in a research laboratory

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Research experience in the following areas: bacterial genetics, molecular biology techniques, protein expression and purification, bacterial cell growth.

  • Demonstrated ability to learn new techniques and train others.


Education:

Bachelor's degree preferred; focus in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bacteriology, or related field.

How to Apply:

For the best experience completing your application, we recommend using Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.

To apply for this position, select either "I am a current employee" or "I am not a current employee" under Apply Now. You will then be prompted to upload your application materials.

Important: The application has only one attachment field. Upload all required documents in that field, either as a single combined file or as multiple files in the same upload area.

Upload required documents:
* Cover letter
* Resume

Your cover letter should address how your training and experience align with the required and preferred qualifications listed above. Application reviewers will rely on these written materials to determine which applicants move forward in the process. References will be requested from final candidates. All applicants will be notified once the search concludes and a candidate is selected.

University sponsorship is not available for this position, including transfers of sponsorship and TN visas. The selected applicant will be responsible for ensuring their continuous eligibility to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the United States, a lawful permanent resident, a foreign national authorized to work in the United States without the need of an employer sponsorship) on or before the effective date of appointment. This position is an ongoing position that will require continuous work eligibility. If you are selected for this position you must provide proof of work authorization and eligibility to work.

The department will not be able to support a request for a J-1 waiver. If you choose to pursue a waiver and apply for our position, neither the UW nor UWMF will reimburse you for your legal or waiver fees.

Contact Information:

Jennifer Scheuer, jscheuer@wisc.edu, (608) 439-9206

Relay Access (WTRS): 7-1-1. See RELAY_SERVICE for further information.

Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW-Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison fulfills its public mission by creating a welcoming and inclusive community for people from every background - people who as students, faculty, and staff serve Wisconsin and the world.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to, including but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, or status as a protected veteran and other bases as defined by federal regulations and UW System policies. We promote excellence by acknowledging skills and expertise from all backgrounds and encourage all qualified individuals to apply. For more information regarding applicant and employee rights and to view federal and state required postings, visit the Human Resources Workplace Poster website.

To request a disability or pregnancy-related accommodation for any step in the hiring process (e.g., application, interview, pre-employment testing, etc.), please contact the Divisional Disability Representative (DDR) in the division you are applying to. Please make your request as soon as possible to help the university respond most effectively to you.

Employment may require a criminal background check. It may also require your references to answer questions regarding misconduct, including sexual violence and sexual harassment.

The University of Wisconsin System will not reveal the identities of applicants who request confidentiality in writing, except that the identity of the successful candidate will be released. See Wis. Stat. sec. 19.36(7).

The Annual Security and Fire Safety Report contains current campus safety and disciplinary policies, crime statistics for the previous 3 calendar years, and on-campus student housing fire safety policies and fire statistics for the previous 3 calendar years. UW-Madison will provide a paper copy upon request; please contact the University of Wisconsin Police Department.

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