Senior Research Associate, Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, UMKC School of Dentistry

UNIVERSITY of MISSOURI-KANSAS CITY

SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY

Oral and Craniofacial Sciences (OCS)

Prof Cox's laboratory conducts both basic and translational research aimed at understanding the mechanisms coordinating normal craniofacial development and underpinning common craniofacial birth defects such as cleft lip/palate and craniofacial microsomia. The lab's research incorporates the gamut of molecular, cellular, and genetic techniques, including whole genome analysis of patients and the generation and analysis of animal models of the aforementioned disorders. Combining these approaches allows us to examine and understand the influence of both genetic variation and maternal dietary factors to disease susceptibility. The lab is somewhat unique in combining human genetic studies with expertise in 3D imaging (microCT and Optical Projection Tomography) for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of craniofacial form in animal models.

https://dentistry.umkc.edu/profiles/cox-timothy.html

https://www.umkc.edu/insider/posts/2025/09/dr-timothy-cox-named-curators-distinguished-professor.html

UMKC is rated R1 by the Carnegie Research Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.

The University of Missouri-Kansas City's Department of Oral & Craniofacial Sciences has an opening for a bioinformatics-trained senior research associate (any level) to join the laboratory of Prof Timothy Cox.

The successful applicant will be responsible for the management and analysis of exome and whole-genome sequencing (short- and long-read) datasets from large patient cohorts encompassing both cleft lip/palate and craniofacial microsomia/microtia. They will also be responsible for working with and helping other lab members and students with their omics-related analyses, such as experiments involving RNAseq and epigenetics methods. The management and analysis of data will be conducted on both cloud-based and high-end workstation platforms. A hybrid position can also be considered, with the balance of remote and in-person work negotiable.

This is a full-time, 40 hours a week, 6-month non-benefit eligible academic assignment.

Minimum requirements for the position include a doctoral degree in either the life sciences or computer sciences (with some biology training). In addition to excellent verbal and written communication skills, the successful candidate will be highly motivated, able to work independently and creatively, function as a team player, be proficient at problem solving, be willing to listen and to question, and have a deep curiosity for science.

Preferred Qualifications

At least 3 years of experience in mammalian genomics, epigenomics, and/or bioinformatics - particularly the analysis of whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing datasets.

The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $5,333- $5,833 monthly.

Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the individual's particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements.

Your total compensation goes beyond the number on your paycheck. The University of Missouri provides generous leave, health plans, and retirement contributions that add to your bottom line.

For consideration, you must apply online at www.umkc.edu/jobs, click in Academic Positions (Job Opening ID 58275.

Please combine all application materials, (1) a 1-page cover letter, (2) a current CV, and (3) contact information for a minimum of two referees, into one PDF or Microsoft Word document and upload as your resume attachments. Limit document name to 50 characters and do not include any special characters (e.g., /, &, %, etc.). Maximum size limit is 11MB.

• If you are experiencing technical problems during application, please email umpshrsupport@umsystem.edu .
• For questions about the position, please contact umkcfacultysearch@umkc.edu including the Job Identification number 58275 and name of the position.
• Reasonable accommodations may be requested during the application and recruitment process. If you need an accommodation, please contact the Office of Equity and Title IX at (816) 235-1323.

Higher education transcripts will be required for candidates advancing as finalists. Candidates will receive prior notification if references will be contacted. A Criminal Background Check is required prior to hire.

Applications will be accepted until a qualified candidate is hired.

UMKC is a public, urban, Carnegie rated R1 research university with more than 15,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students. It is part of the larger University of Missouri System. Our university is committed to being a model urban university that is recognized for our partnerships with surrounding urban communities to effectively foster a healthy, safe, and more economically secure quality of life.

A City on the Rise: Big City Life and Midwest Charm, Kansas City offers the best of both worlds - a vibrant, urban community with midwestern appeal and an affordable cost of living. The university is located in a Kansas City metropolitan area that is among the most entrepreneurial cities in America with a population of more than 2.4 million. Our UMKC campuses are centered in the hubs of business activity, cultural arts, (some great barbeque and ethnic cuisine!) and health science research engagement for both the Volker and Health Sciences campuses. Our community boasts championship professional athletic teams, NASCAR racing, and a rich history of music and performing arts. Our beautiful state provides rivers, lakes, biking/hiking trails and mountains for outdoor enthusiasts all within an easy drive.

UMKC is proud to be "Kansas City's university," and the campus and its people celebrate all the characteristics of the surrounding community. To learn more about life in Kansas City and find more resources, visit VisitKC.com.

This position is not eligible for University benefits. Individuals in non benefit eligible positions may choose to participate in the Tax Deferred Annuity Plan (403b). For information about this plan, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at https://www.umsystem.edu/totalrewards/benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at 816-235-6910.