Researcher/Scientist IV, Department of Immunobiology

The Department of Immunobiology is seeking a full-time Research Scientist IV to join the laboratory of Dr. Michael D.L. Johnson. The Johnson Lab, established in 2016, investigates bacterial metal homeostasis, with a particular focus on Streptococcus species. The selected candidate will lead independent research projects on metal homeostasis and microbial interactions, contributing to the lab's goals of advancing knowledge in microbial physiology and metal regulation. The ideal candidate will have a PhD in Microbiology or a related field, with at least 8 years of research experience, a strong background in bacterial research, and proficiency in both experimental design and leadership within the laboratory setting.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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• Lead and independently manage research projects, focusing on metal homeostasis in bacteria, utilizing advanced techniques such as ICP OES, protein purification, and Cytation 5. Design experiments, execute protocols, and oversee microbial culture processes to achieve research goals.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, guiding the design and implementation of experimental protocols, animal-based research (including infections and ex-vivo surgical procedures), and other laboratory techniques. Provide training in laboratory procedures and safety practices.
• Coordinate and oversee the work of laboratory staff, managing multiple projects across different research areas. Ensure alignment of research goals, facilitate cross-functional collaboration, and monitor progress to maintain efficiency and high-quality output.
• Manage and analyze research data, ensuring proper documentation, organization, and reporting. Advise the lab director and senior researchers on experimental design, troubleshooting, and optimizing workflows to ensure robust, reproducible results.
• Write and contribute to research grants and scientific papers, leveraging in-depth knowledge of the field to develop high-quality proposals and publications. Ensure clear communication of research findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Deliver technical reports and presentations on research progress and findings. Synthesize complex data, providing actionable insights to inform future research strategies and support grant-writing and publication efforts.
• Manage and analyze research data, ensuring proper documentation, organization, and reporting. Advise the lab director and senior researchers on experimental design, troubleshooting, and optimizing workflows to ensure robust, reproducible results.
• Oversee the proper storage and management of research samples and data, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and best practices in data integrity. Review data storage protocols and offer recommendations to the lab director for system improvements.

Knowledge, Skills, and
Abilities:

• Proven ability to lead research projects and mentor junior staff in both lab-based and animal research.
• Expertise in managing research data, including documentation, analysis, and presentation of findings.
• Proficiency in additional research techniques related to microbial metal homeostasis or bacterial physiology.

• PhD in Microbiology, Immunobiology, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.

• Experience in leading multidisciplinary research teams and collaborating with faculty and external partners.
• Strong publication record and experience in grant writing and securing research funding.
• Extensive experience with experimental design, advanced laboratory techniques, and the operation of scientific equipment such as ICP OES, protein purification systems, and Cytation 5.
• Experience in managing complex data systems, including bioinformatics tools for data analysis.