Scientist/Health Sciences in Albuquerque, New Mexico at University of New Mexico

Requisition ID: req37240

Working Title:
Scientist/Health Sciences

Position Grade:
14

Position Summary:
The Mandell Lab at The University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center is seeking a highly motivated and well-trained individual to join our research team as a Scientist. Our laboratory investigates the molecular mechanisms of autophagy, with a particular focus on the roles of TRIM family ubiquitin ligases. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research in cellular homeostasis and organelle quality control.

Research Focus:
Our laboratory studies how TRIM (tripartite motif-containing) proteins, a family of ubiquitin ligases, regulate autophagy and impact cellular stress responses. Using a combination of advanced imaging, molecular biology, and functional assays, we aim to uncover novel regulatory pathways that connect ubiquitination to the autophagic machinery.

Key Responsibilities:
Design and conduct high-quality, reproducible experiments focused on TRIM protein function in autophagy.
Utilize high-content microscopy, specifically with the CellInsight CX7 platform, to analyze cellular phenotypes.
Perform and troubleshoot a wide range of standard cell and molecular biology techniques.
Maintain detailed and organized experimental records using NIH-compliant digital lab notebooks.
Manage and organize laboratory supplies and experimental collections.
Train and mentor new laboratory members in technical protocols and lab operations.
Contribute to manuscript preparation and grant writing in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI).

See the Position Description for additional information.

Conditions of Employment:

• For individual positions in which driving is a job requirement, a valid NM driver's license and valid UNM driver's permit will be required.
• Successful candidate must submit to post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check.

Campus:
Health Sciences Center (HSC) - Albuquerque, NM

Benefits Eligble:
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.

Department:
Molecular Genetics Microbiology (564A)

Employment Type:
Staff

Staff Type:
Term - Full-Time
Status:
Exempt

Pay:
Monthly: $4,924.40 - $7,046.00

Benefits Eligible:
This is a benefits eligible position. The University of New Mexico provides a comprehensive package of benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. In addition, UNM offers educational benefits through the tuition remission and dependent education programs. See the Benefits home page for a more information.

ERB Statement:
As a condition of employment, eligible employees working greater than .25 FTE as determined by the New Mexico Education Retirement Act must make mandatory retirement contributions. For more information, review the Benefits Eligibility at a Glance grid.

Background Check Required:
No
For Best Consideration Date:
7/22/2026

Application Instructions:
Only applications submitted throughthe official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this jobadvertisement on a 3rd party site, pleasevisit UNMJobs to submit an application.
• Cover letter describing research interests, career goals, and fit for the position• Curriculum vitae (CV)/UNMJobs Application• List of referencesMinimum Qualifications: Doctorate degree; at least 1 year of post-doctorate experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

Completed degree(s) from an accredited institution that are above the minimum education requirement may be substituted for experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications: Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or a closely related field with 4+ years postdoctoral training.
Extensive experience in standard molecular and cell biology techniques including investigations into protein-protein interactions.
Excellent communication, organizational, and documentation skills.
A strong publication record and a commitment to rigorous, reproducible science.

Highly competitive candidates willhave one or more of the following preferred qualifications:

Strong background in autophagy research, including familiarity with key pathways and assays.
Prior experience studying ubiquitin ligase biology.
Familiarity with automated image analysis workflows and data management.
Experience working with viruses (especially HIV) under BSL-2 or higher conditions.
Prior experience working with host restriction factors against viral infection.
Prior experience with culture of iPSC-derived neurons.