University of New Mexico·Albuquerque, New Mexico
The Research Scientist will oversee retinal organoid maintenance and experiments, decode microglia associated inflammation gene regulatory networks, and assist in various co-culture and single-cell multi-omics experiments. They will also communicate research findings and contribute to grant preparation and support trainees in ongoing research projects.
Research Scientist 1 Requisition ID req35680 Working Title Research Scientist 1 Position Grade 11
Dr. Singh’s lab at Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center is looking for a Research Scientist 1. Dr. Singh’s lab focuses on decoding the epigenetic basis of ocular & metastatic cancers, dry age-related macular degeneration (dAMD) and defining the molecular mechanisms driving the chronic inflammation associated states. This is a unique opportunity to be part of cutting-edge biomedical research with direct impact on future diagnostics and therapeutics. The Research Scientist will help to oversee retinal organoid maintenance and experiments, decode microglia associated inflammation gene regulatory networks and also be involved in Uveal Melanoma metastasis associated projects. The Research Scientist will assist in various co-culture experiments, single-cell multi-omics experiments, big data analysis, flow cytometry, immuno-microscopy, molecular biology experiments and manuscript preparation. The Research Scientist will perform routine scientific research tasks; animal research work; maintain accurate experiment/samples/research databases; develop & utilize established protocols; plan, design, conduct, process & lead scientific experiments; ensure data integrity, quality control, and protocol compliance; developing recruitment and retention strategies etc. This position will also communicate research findings to the scientific community in peer-reviewed journal articles. This position will also contribute to the preparation of grants, literature reviews and contract proposals. This position will also support trainees/students (undergrad, PhD, MD students and post-doc) in ongoing research projects focused on uveal melanoma, cancer epigenetics, and AMD etc.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential to this position. Experience with regulatory processes such as IRB submissions, organizing, sorting, and analyzing data is preferred. See the Position Description for additional information.
Successful candidate must submit to a post-offer, pre-employment physical examination and medical history check. Additional health screenings may be required, dependent on the nature of the research conducted, as determined by Employee Occupational Health Services. Employees who provide services or work in patient care or clinical areas are required to be in compliance with the University's influenza vaccination requirement.
Bachelor's degree; no previous experience required. 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.
Master's degree; with at least 5 years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified or PhD degree (preferred) Additional Requirements Campus Health Sciences Center (HSC) - Albuquerque, NM Department Department of Ophthalmology (409A) Employment Type Staff Staff Type Term - Full-Time Term End Date 9/30/2027 Status Exempt Pay Monthly: $3,802.93 - $5,097.73 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 Yes For Best Consideration Date 2/13/2026 Eligible for Remote Work No Eligible for Remote Work Statement Application Instructions Only applications submitted through the official UNMJobs site will be accepted. If you are viewing this job advertisement on a 3rd party site, please visit UNMJobs to submit an application. Please attach Cover Letter explaining interest in the position and highlighting relevant skills/background, scientific writing experience etc. Attach Resume or CV. If available, a sample of your scientific writing or a brief description of any relevant previous projects and transcripts. Attach current class schedule or availability. Positions posted with a Staff Type of Regular or Term are eligible for the Veteran Preference Program. See the Veteran Preference Program webpage for additional details. The University of New Mexico is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. The University of New Mexico requires all regular staff positions successfully pass a pre-employment background check. This may include, but is not limited to, a criminal history background check, New Mexico Department of Health fingerprint screening, New Mexico Children, Youth, and Families Department fingerprint screening, verification of education credentials, and/or verification of prior employment. For more information about background checks, visit https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3280.html. Refer to https://policy.unm.edu/university-policies/3000/3200.html for a definition of Regular Staff.
A Bachelor's degree is required, with no previous experience necessary. A Master's degree with at least 5 years of relevant experience or a PhD is preferred.
Market context
Research Scientist 1 roles in New Mexico often draw interest from candidates with strong academic training, especially where a bachelor’s degree meets the minimum and advanced degrees are preferred. Competition can center on research methods, subject-matter depth, and fit with the team’s priorities. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then compare your degree and experience against the preferred qualifications before applying.