This position requires in-person work on the Champaign-Urbana campus.
This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.
The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is a public land-grant research university in Illinois in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867. The university serves the people of Illinois through a shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, public engagement, economic development and health care. Faculty, staff and students share their knowledge, expertise and resources with residents in every corner of the state through public service and outreach programs.
The mission of the CBC is to provide comprehensive state-of-the-art integrated omics analysis, research engagement, student training, and strategic workshops in the biomedical, life and natural sciences, agriculture, and engineering.
The Research Specialist will support targeted and untargeted metabolomics research projects for investigators across the university and external collaborators and will perform biological sample preparation, support LC-MS/MS analyses, assist with laboratory operations, and contribute to the successful completion of metabolomics projects involving a wide variety of biological and environmental sample types. This position requires strong laboratory skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt sample preparation and analytical workflows to meet project-specific requirements. This position will work closely with core facility scientific staff to ensure high-quality analytical results and efficient operation of the metabolomics facility.
- Laboratory Sample Processing:
- Prepare biological and environmental samples for metabolomics analysis.
- Perform metabolite extractions from tissues, cells, plasma, serum, urine, microbial cultures, plant materials, and other complex sample matrices.
- Prepare calibration standards, internal standards, blanks, and quality control samples.
- Perform sample concentration, cleanup, and purification procedures as needed, including solvent evaporation and solid-phase extraction techniques.
- Organize and prepare analytical sample batches for LC-MS/MS analysis.
- LC-MS/MS Analysis:
- Operate LC-MS/MS instrumentation for targeted and untargeted metabolomics analyses.
- Prepare analytical sequences and verify instrument readiness prior to sample analysis.
- Monitor instrument performance and analytical quality during project execution.
- Assist with routine instrument maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting.
- Review quality control samples and analytical performance metrics to ensure data quality.
- Facility Operations:
- Maintain laboratory supplies, reagents, and consumables.
- Maintain required laboratory safety training and adhere to university safety policies and procedures.
- Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
- Project Support:
- Work closely with senior scientific staff to implement analytical approaches appropriate for individual projects.
- Adjust extraction procedures, dilution factors, calibration ranges, and quality control strategies based on sample characteristics and anticipated analyte concentrations.
- Assist with planning and execution of metabolomics projects to ensure timely completion of analyses.
- Communicate effectively with facility personnel regarding project requirements and laboratory progress.
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Analytical Chemistry, or a related scientific field.
- A minimum of one year of relevant laboratory experience involving biological sample preparation, analytical chemistry, mass spectrometry, or a related field.
Alternate degree fields may be considered if accompanied by relevant experience.
- Master's degree or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biology, Analytical Chemistry, or a closely related field.
- Hands-on experience with LC-MS/MS instrumentation.
- Experience with metabolomics, lipidomics, proteomics, bioanalysis, natural products, or related mass spectrometry applications.
- Experience preparing biological samples for mass spectrometry-based analyses including SPE.
- Experience working in a collaborative research laboratory, core facility, contract research organization, or similar analytical environment.
- Experience preparing calibration standards, internal standards, and quality control samples.
- Experience working with one or more of the following sample types:
- Plasma
- Serum
- Urine
- Feces
- Cell pellets and cell culture media
- Plant tissues
- Animal tissues
- Familiarity with one or more of the following software platforms:
- Agilent MassHunter
- Waters MassLynx
- Thermo Xcalibur
- SCIEX Analyst
- SCIEX OS
- MS-DIAL
- Understanding of analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry principles.
- Ability to apply analytical chemistry concepts to diverse sample types and analytical challenges.
- Ability to adjust extraction procedures, dilution schemes, calibration ranges, and quality control approaches based on project-specific requirements.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to laboratory quality.
- Strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Effective communication skills.
This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $58,000 to $65,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Monday, September 14, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Qualified candidates must upload: 1) a cover letter which details qualifications noted above; 2) resume or CV; and 3) the names and contact information for three professional references. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. All requested information must be submitted for your application to be considered. Incomplete applications will not be reviewed. For further information about this specific position, please contact Thurman Etchison at [email protected]. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or [email protected].
Requisition ID: 1037836
Job Category: Research
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu
