Scientist I

Job Title
Scientist I


Requisition Number
RE49693


Working Title

Department Name
81110:Horticulture


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Grade Level
44


Salary Range
$43,805-70,075/year


Type of Position
Staff


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education


MS




Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies


Required Related Experience


No experience required.




Required License/Registration/Certification

None.



Physical Requirements

Lifting objects, bending squatting, and standing or sitting for long periods of time.



Shift

40 hours per week, may require working outside of normal working hours (weekends/early mornings/evenings).



Job Summary

Unlock the Secrets of the Gut Microbiome – Join Our Research Team!



Are you a passionate researcher eager to explore the fascinating world of the gut microbiome? Do you want to work on cutting-edge projects that have a real impact on human health? If so, we want you on our team!



The Corbin Lab at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment (M-G CAFE) is looking for a Scientist I to lead innovative research on how compounds interact with the human digestive system and influence gut microbial communities. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries in gut health while working in a collaborative, dynamic environment.



What You’ll Do:



· Lead Research Initiatives – Conduct pioneering studies using in-vitro models like SHIME (Simulator of Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem) to examine how various compounds and food products impact the gut microbiome.

· Apply Specialized Expertise – Utilize your experience with plant-derived compounds, probiotics, symbiotics, or prebiotics to explore their role in gut microbiome modulation and/or gut health clinical trials.

· Drive Project Success – Assist in bioethics applications, oversee project management, and contribute to impactful publications and reports.

· Manage Lab Operations – Oversee daily lab functions, including purchasing supplies, preparing reagents, and ensuring safety protocols are met.

· Conduct Advanced Experiments – Work with in vitro colon model systems, perform nucleic acid extractions, prepare sequencing libraries, isolate microorganisms, and analyze complex data.

· Mentor & Collaborate – Train and support students, staff, and visitors while fostering a positive and innovative team environment.

· Oversee High-Tech Equipment – Maintain and operate specialized lab equipment, including biosafety cabinets, anaerobic chambers, gas monitoring systems, and the SHIME system.



What We’re Looking For:



· Research Expertise – Strong background in diet-gut health interactions and microbiome research.
· Bioinformatics & -Omics Knowledge – Experience with data integration is a plus!
· Strong Communication Skills – Ability to clearly convey research findings through writing and presentations.
· Reliability & Professionalism – A dedicated, detail-oriented scientist with a passion for gut health research.



Why Join Us?



At the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, we foster a supportive workplace with professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and a staff development fund. You’ll be part of a team that’s pushing the boundaries of microbiome science while contributing to the broader mission of the University of Kentucky.



Ready to make an impact? Apply now and be part of this exciting journey!



Click here to learn more about M-G CAFE and our mission.





Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
No


Preferred Education/Experience

Deadline to Apply
04/20/2025


Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.


As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.


Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.