Research Data Scientist Jobs in West Virginia

The Office of Research & Graduate Education at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for a Core Facility Manager.

About the Opportunity

The Health Sciences Center (HSC) at West Virginia University is seeking a highly motivated PhD-level scientist to oversee and expand the Molecular Analytics & Therapeutics Core (MATRIX Core). The purpose of this position is to provide leadership, technical expertise, and strategic development of metabolomics and compound characterization services to support a diverse and growing biomedical research community.

The successful candidate will bring expertise in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry–based metabolomics and lipidomics, with hands-on experience operating and maintaining LC/MS instruments, including triple quadrupole and high-resolution instruments (e.g., Orbitrap). Experience with NMR-based metabolomics is desirable.

This individual will play a central role in advancing molecular analytics capabilities at WVU by supporting investigators, developing new analytical methods, and ensuring high-quality, reproducible data generation.

What You'll Do

• Oversee daily operations of the MATRIX Core, including instrument performance, maintenance, and troubleshooting of LC/MS systems
• Develop, optimize, and validate targeted and untargeted methods to expand the range of services offered
• Manage scheduling and utilization of core instruments and ensure equitable and efficient access for users
• Provide consultation to investigators on experimental design, sample preparation, and data interpretation
• Perform or oversee sample analysis, data acquisition, and quality control
• Maintain accurate records of instrument performance, service logs, and experimental workflows
• Coordinate with instrument vendors and service engineers to diagnose and resolve technical issues, and arrange for repairs and preventive maintenance as needed
• Order and manage inventory of solvents, consumables, and replacement parts required for continuous operation of the instruments
• Train and supervise users, students, and staff in molecular analytics techniques and instrument operation
• Collaborate with investigators on grant applications and manuscripts involving metabolomics data
• Evaluate and implement new technologies to enhance core capabilities
• Ensure compliance with institutional safety regulations and best practices for handling chemicals and biological samples
• Manage core-related documentation, billing, and reporting as required

• PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or a related field.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in the following:
  • Demonstrated experience with LC/MS-based metabolomics platforms.
  • Experience with NMR-based metabolomics is a plus

• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Extensive knowledge of mass spectrometry and chromatographic techniques
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills
• Demonstrated ability to develop and optimize analytical methods
• Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining complex analytical instruments
• Knowledge of metabolomics data processing and analysis workflows
• Ability to design experiments and provide scientific consultation
• Strong organizational and project management skills
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to interact with investigators of diverse backgrounds =
• Ability to train and mentor students and staff
• Proficiency with data analysis software and standard computing tools

• Commitment to maintaining high standards of data quality and reproducibility

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.

From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.

At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.

Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact. To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu.

West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.