Research Scientist

The George Mason University Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, is seeking to hire a Research Scientist to work on a cutting-edge project to study nonlethal viral infections. The successful candidate will have an M.S. or Ph.D. degree in biochemistry, chemistry or related discipline, with experience in the areas of proteomic/peptidomic mass spectrometry and data analysis. George Mason University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of excellence and diversity among its faculty and staff, and strongly encourages candidates to apply who will enrich Mason’s academic and culturally inclusive environment.

George Mason University’s College of Science (Mason Science) is committed to advancing access, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (AJEDI) throughout our STEM community, including within our hiring and retention practices. At Mason Science, our values include fostering an organizational culture that promotes Anti-Racism, belonging, respect, and civility. We believe that a diversity of opinions, cultures, and perspectives is what provides vibrancy, innovation, and growth to an academic community. By prioritizing inclusive excellence in academics, teaching, research, and global engagement, we strive to attract a diverse pool of faculty and staff who exemplify the Mason Science mission and vision.

Responsibilities:

The primary focus of the Research Scientist will be research, and they will work closely with the Principal Investigator and graduate students on the project. This project is part of a multidisciplinary effort involving bioprospecting, biochemistry, proteomics/peptidomics, virology, neuroscience, and mass spectrometry.

The successful candidate will be responsible for performing proteomic and peptidomic analyses of biological samples. They will also perform statistical analyses of the data generated by these studies in order to establish patterns and trends in the identified peptides and proteins and the health state and disease progression in mice. They will process samples for mass spectrometry analyses, analyze the samples via tandem mass spectrometry (using Thermo Fisher Orbitrap Fusion Tribrid and Exploris mass spectrometers), and analyze the data to identify proteomic/peptidomic patterns and changes associated with infection and disease progression. Additionally, this person will have some lab management and supervisory responsibilities in support of the project. They will work closely with the Principal Investigator and will also be involved in the discussion and coordinating research efforts with collaborators on the project.

Required Qualifications:

• MS or PhD degree in biochemistry, chemistry or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience; Demonstrated experience with the use of LC-MS and LC-MS/MS for proteomic/peptidomic analyses; Demonstrated hands-on experience with mass spectrometry and proteomics data analysis; Significant computer aptitude, including experience with word processing, and spreadsheet software; Demonstrated hands-on laboratory experience in independent research project; Willingness to work at BSL2; Excellent attention to detail in laboratory tasks as well as administrative tasks; Ability to work under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor; Ability to read and comprehend relevant scientific literature; Flexibility to handle a variety of tasks and shift priorities simultaneously; Ability to work as an effective team member; and Ability to use sound judgment to effectively solve problems within the scope of the position.

Preferred Qualifications:

• High level of initiative and ability to work productively with limited supervision; Experience with Thermo Orbitrap Tribrid and/or Exploris instruments; Experience with PEAKS or similar proteomic mass spectrometry software; Experience with statistical analysis software (e.g., use of MATLAB or R for data analysis) and working with Python scripting language; Experience with ETD, HCD, and EThcD fragmentation; Excellent verbal and written communication skills; and Excellent punctuality, organization, and time management skills.

About the Department:

The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry offers undergraduate programs leading to the BA or BS (ACS certification) degrees in Chemistry, with optional concentrations in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, or Environmental Chemistry; a five-year BS/Accelerated MS degree; a traditional MS degree and a PhD in Chemistry. The Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry has research labs and faculty distributed over three campuses addressing two primary research thrust areas: Fairfax campus (energy – physical, solid-state inorganic, organic, and analytical chemistry), the Science & Technology campus in Manassas (biomedical – biochemistry/medicinal chemistry), and the Potomac Environmental Research & Education Center (sustainability – environmental chemistry). The research funding portfolio includes the Department of Defense, National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Science Foundation (NSF), other government and non-profit agencies, and private industry. Faculty in the department have close collaborations with researchers from a number of local and regional institutions, including the United States Army Medical Research Institute for Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID), Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (WRAIR), NIH, Food and Drug Administration, Naval Research Laboratory, National Institute of Standard and Technology (NIST), the United States Geological Survey (USGS), and Inova Health System, among others.

For more information about the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, visit us on the web at https://cos.gmu.edu/chemistry.

For more information about the College of Science, visit https://cos.gmu.edu

Special Instructions to Applicants  

For full consideration, applicants must apply for position number F884AZ at https://jobs.gmu.edu/; complete and submit the online application; and upload (1) a cover letter (research interests), (2) CV, (3) list of three professional references with contact information, and (4) a statement detailing how your teaching, service and/or scholarship has supported the success of students from racial, ethnic, and gender backgrounds that are minoritized and marginalized in your academic field. Applicants who have not yet had the opportunity for such experience should note how their work will further Mason Science’s commitment to access, justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion (AJEDI) (as Other Doc).

George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.