Research Specialist II - Dr. Laura Schulz Laboratory

NextGen Precision Health

The Schulz Laboratory in the NextGen Precision Health building is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist II to support ongoing research focused on placental biology, maternal-fetal health, and the developmental origins of disease. The Research Specialist II will play a key role in independently conducting laboratory experiments, maintaining animal and tissue culture models, supporting grant-funded projects, and ensuring compliance with regulatory and safety standards, particularly to study the influence of maternal myostatin on placental function and fetal musculoskeletal development..

This position is ideal for a candidate with prior laboratory experience who is comfortable working both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research environment.

Dr. Laura C. Schulz's laboratory investigates how the maternal hormonal and nutritional environment during pregnancy influences placental development and, in turn, fetal growth and long-term health outcomes. The lab is actively involved in NIH-funded, multi-institutional collaborations and works closely with investigators across obstetrics and gynecology, biological sciences, animal sciences, and biochemistry. Research from the Schulz Lab contributes to understanding pregnancy-related complications and their lifelong health consequences.

Key Responsibilities
Research & Laboratory Operations

* Independently conduct and support bench-based experiments related to placental biology, including work with mouse models, and tissue culture models.
* Perform laboratory techniques such as tissue culture, histology, biochemistry and molecular biology assays (e.g., PCR, Western blotting, ELISA), depending on project needs
* Assist with animal studies, including mouse colony management, genotyping, timed breeding, sample collection, tissue dissection, and coordination with veterinary and animal care staff in compliance with IACUC protocols
* Accurately collect, analyze, and document experimental data; maintain organized laboratory notebooks and electronic records

Compliance, Safety & Quality Control

* Ensure compliance with IACUC, IRB (as applicable), biosafety, and chemical safety protocols
* Maintain laboratory organization, including inventory management, ordering supplies, reagent preparation, and equipment maintenance
* Assist with standard operating procedure (SOP) development and adherence to best laboratory practices

Collaboration & Communication

* Work closely with the Principal Investigator, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and collaborators to support ongoing research projects
* Contribute to data summaries, figures, and preliminary analyses for manuscripts, presentations, and grant applications
* Participate in lab meetings and contribute to troubleshooting experimental approaches

Monday - Friday, 8:00 to 5:00 p.m. occasional nights and weekends

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience and at least 1 year of experience from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary.

At least one year of laboratory experience in biochemistry, molecular or cellular biology or physiology.

Salary Range: $18.87 - $27.00 per hour

Grade: GGS 008

University Title: Research Specialist II

Internal applicants can determine their University title by accessing the Talent Profile tile in myHR.

CV, Cover letter, References

Columbia offers small-town friendliness with big city features and a high quality of life for people of all ages and interests. Founded on education and known as an ideal college town, its location also makes it an attractive spot for businesses and travelers. Located on Interstate 70 and U.S. Highway 63, Columbia is right in the middle of the state and the nation. Just a couple hours' drive from St. Louis and Kansas City, Columbia is Boone County's largest population center offering big-city culture, activities, and resources with a low cost of living. Columbia is home to a variety of restaurants and entertainment venues and hosts more than a dozen festivals each year. If you want to grow your career, continue your education, raise a family, and retire, Columbia is a good place to be!

This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short- and long-term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, 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 Director of Accessibility and ADA at 573-884-7278.