Research Lab Specialist.1050214

Research Lab Specialist Position, Bioanalytical Chemistry, Plant and Natural Products
Position Description
Khalifa University is a leading academic institution dedicated to delivering world-class education, advancing research, and fostering innovation. The Center for Biotechnology, part of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Khalifa University, emphasizes three core themes: OMICs, Digital Medicine, and Translational Medicine. It is devoted to creating integrated approaches for disease prevention, leveraging AI and bioinformatics to unravel the molecular mechanisms of complex diseases, and developing groundbreaking therapeutics for regenerative medicine.
The Center for Biotechnology at Khalifa University is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Research Laboratory Specialist to work primarily on a project focused on plant research, including the preparation of plant extracts and essential oils, followed by compositional analysis using advanced analytical techniques such as LC-MS and GC-MS. The successful candidate will be responsible for LC-MS, GC-MS, and ETHOS-X technologies, focusing on essential oil extraction, chemical profiling, and data analysis to support the Center's research projects. Responsibilities also include managing the analytical Core facilities and ensuring the efficient operation of analytical equipment. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research in plant-based natural products and play a vital role in the management and maintenance of the analytical core. The specialist will also contribute to the operation of our Advanced Analytical Core Facility, which supports research involving diverse sample types, including but not limited to plant samples, human samples (serum, plasma, tissue, urine), cell culture supernatants, and microbial samples.

Key Responsibilities
- Extract plant materials using advanced techniques, including ETHOS-X for essential oil extraction as well as distillation systems.
- Develop and optimize extraction protocols for targeted compounds.
- Operate, troubleshoot, and maintain LC-MS and GC-MS instruments for plant extract analysis while ensuring high-quality data output.
- Process and analyze various sample types (e.g., human serum, plasma, urine, tissue, microbial cultures).
- Perform qualitative and quantitative chemical analysis of essential oils and other plant-derived compounds.
- Analyze data from LC-MS and GC-MS using specialized software.
- Interpret chemical profiles and prepare detailed reports for research reports and publication.
- Oversee the operation and maintenance of analytical core facilities, ensuring optimal performance of LC-MS, GC-MS, and other equipment.
- Collaborate with researchers to design experiments and analyze results.
- Manage laboratory schedules, equipment usage, and training for research staff and students.
- Document workflows, protocols, and findings in compliance with laboratory standards.
- Ensure compliance with safety and operational standards within the analytical core.
- Contribute to the development of innovative methods for plant extract analysis and composition profiling.
- Maintain inventory of reagents and supplies for ongoing projects.
- Implement laboratory safety protocols and ensure adherence to regulatory standards.