Assistant Research Scientist

Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.

About the College/Unit/Department

The College of Pharmacy at the University of Georgia (UGA) is a distinguished institution known for its excellence in pharmacy education, research, and community service (https://rx.uga.edu/). We are at the forefront of pharmaceutical research, with faculty and students engaged in groundbreaking studies that contribute to advancements in healthcare and medicine. Research areas include drug discovery, pharmacology, and clinical pharmacy. The college is highly ranked, placing 16th out of 140 pharmacy programs nationwide according to US News & World Report, underscoring our reputation for excellence. These elements make the UGA College of Pharmacy a unique and enriching place for students to pursue their pharmacy education and careers.

College/Unit/Department website: https://rx.uga.edu/

Posting Type: External

Retirement Plan: TRS or ORP

Employment Type: Employee

Benefits Eligibility: Benefits Eligible

Anticipated Start Date: 05/01/2027

Job Posting Date: 08/18/2026

Open until filled: Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants

Interested individuals should apply along with the following information as a single PDF file in the “Other Documents #1” section:

• A detailed curriculum vitae
• A cover letter addressing the candidate’s experience relating to the responsibilities of the position with a summary of research accomplishments and future goals (2-page max)
• The names, titles, and contact information for three professional references

Questions about the position should be directed to:
Duo Zhang, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
The University of Georgia College of Pharmacy
1120 Fifteenth St.
HM Bldg Rm 117
Augusta, GA 30912
Email: duozhang@uga.edu
Phone: 706-721-6491

Location of Vacancy: Augusta Area

EEO Statement

The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR (hrweb@uga.edu).

USG Core Values Statement

The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning, as well the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 08.02.18.01.02.

Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 06.05 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom.

Classification Title: Researcher AC

Faculty Rank: Assistant Research Scientist

Contract Type: Fiscal (12 mo.)

Tenure Status: Non-Tenure Track

Minimum Qualifications

Should be Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Physiology, or a closely related field.

Position Summary

The University of Georgia College of Pharmacy seeks an outstanding candidate for a full-time Assistant Research Scientist position to contribute to the College’s expanding biomedical and translational research mission at the UGA Augusta Campus. This is a 12-month, non-tenure-track faculty appointment within the University of Georgia Research Scientist Track. The successful candidate will lead and support innovative research focused on the molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms underlying pulmonary diseases, including inflammatory, infectious, fibrotic, and chronic respiratory disorders.

The Assistant Research Scientist will be responsible for designing and executing laboratory-based studies, developing novel scientific approaches, analyzing and interpreting complex datasets, and disseminating research findings through peer-reviewed publications and scientific presentations. Additional responsibilities include contributing to sponsored research programs through the preparation of grant proposals and progress reports, collaborating with faculty, research staff, students, and external partners, and providing mentorship and scientific guidance to research trainees.

Additional Requirements

Relevant/Preferred Education, Experience, Licensure, and/or Certification:

• Minimum 1 year of postdoctoral research experience in biomedical, pharmaceutical, translational, or pulmonary research.
• Must possess a strong foundation in molecular biology, cell biology, pharmacology, and translational biomedical research.
• Preference will be given to candidates with expertise in pulmonary biology, respiratory disease, inflammation, fibrosis, infectious diseases, asthma, COPD, acute lung injury, ARDS, or related disciplines.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Comprehensive knowledge of molecular, cellular, and translational biomedical research, including pulmonary disease mechanisms, inflammatory signaling, infectious disease biology, tissue remodeling, and therapeutic development.
• Demonstrated ability to formulate scientific hypotheses, design and conduct independent research studies, analyze data, and translate findings into publications, presentations, and funding opportunities.
• Expertise in molecular and cellular laboratory techniques, including PCR, qPCR, cloning, gene and protein expression analysis, Western blotting, mammalian cell culture, functional assays, flow cytometry, histology, immunohistochemistry, and related methodologies.
• Demonstrated proficiency in animal research models and procedures relevant to pulmonary and translational biomedical research.
• Strong scientific writing and communication skills, with a record of preparing manuscripts, abstracts, technical reports, presentations, and grant applications.
• Proven ability to manage multiple research priorities, projects, and deadlines effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to establish productive interdisciplinary collaborations within a team-based research environment.
• Strong mentoring and leadership capabilities that support the development of undergraduate, graduate, professional, and postdoctoral trainees.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety requirements, biosafety standards, animal research regulations, research integrity principles, and regulatory compliance requirements.
• Record of scholarly achievement demonstrated through peer-reviewed publications, scientific contributions, and grant-supported research activities.
• Potential to contribute to the growth and sustainability of an externally funded, nationally recognized research program.

Physical Demands

• Ability to perform laboratory-based research activities for extended periods.
• Ability to safely handle laboratory equipment, biological materials, and research specimens.
• Ability to lift and transport laboratory supplies and equipment up to established University guidelines.
• Ability to work in laboratory environments involving exposure to chemicals, biological agents, and animal research facilities while adhering to established safety procedures.

Is this a Position of Trust?: No

Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?: No

Does this position require a P-Card? No

Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position? No

Is driving a responsibility of this position?: No

Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?: No

Does this position have Security Access (e.g., public safety, IT security, personnel records, patient records, or access to chemicals and medications): Yes

Credit and P-Card policy

Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the UGA Credit Background Check website.

Background Investigation Policy

Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the UGA Background Check website.

Duties/Responsibilities: Research Program Development and Execution

• Design, develop, and conduct independent and collaborative research studies focused on pulmonary disease mechanisms and therapeutic interventions.
• Develop innovative experimental approaches utilizing molecular, cellular, biochemical, and translational research methodologies.
• Generate, analyze, interpret, and present complex scientific data to support project objectives and scientific advancement.
• Ensure compliance with sponsor requirements, regulatory standards, and institutional research policies.
• Contribute scientific expertise to multidisciplinary research collaborations.

Percentage Of Time: 60

Duties/Responsibilities: Scholarship and Sponsored Research

• Prepare and submit manuscripts, abstracts, technical reports, and scientific communications for dissemination of research findings.
• Present research findings at scientific meetings, seminars, and professional conferences.
• Assist in the preparation and submission of extramural funding proposals, renewal applications, and progress reports.
• Generate preliminary data and scientific rationale to support future funding initiatives.
• Contribute to activities that enhance the national visibility and scholarly reputation of the College of Pharmacy.

Percentage Of Time: 20

Duties/Responsibilities: Mentorship and Research Training

• Mentor undergraduate students, PharmD students, graduate students, and other trainees participating in research programs.
• Provide instruction and guidance regarding laboratory procedures, research methodologies, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive research environment that supports trainee development and scientific excellence.
• Assist trainees with research presentations, publications, and professional development activities.

Percentage Of Time: 10

Duties/Responsibilities: Laboratory Administration and Research Service

• Assist with laboratory operations, equipment management, procurement, and resource coordination.
• Ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards, biosafety requirements, animal care regulations, and institutional research policies.
• Support departmental and college research initiatives through participation in committees, research meetings, and collaborative activities.
• Contribute to strategic efforts that enhance research productivity, infrastructure, and multidisciplinary collaborations.

Percentage Of Time: 10