Temporary, Part-Time Research Specialist: Department of Biomedical Engineering - UTK

The Mechanobiology of Morphogenesis Laboratory at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) has a position available for a Research Associate starting in the Fall of 2026 or Spring of 2027. The selected Research Associate will work in a team setting to support scientific research in the lab of Dr. Weiyi Qian at the Department of Biomedical Engineering. This role involves the comprehensive management of our state-of-the-art zebrafish aquaculture facility. Key responsibilities include the care, breeding, and rearing of zebrafish, as well as conducting genotyping and phenotyping procedures to support ongoing research. 

In this role, the successful candidate is also responsible for conducting independent basic science experimentation based on research conducted in the assigned laboratory under the mentorship of a senior scientist. An individual is expected to seek to build a portfolio of research accomplishments in preparation for acquiring a higher degree in biomedical research or medicine (Ph.D. or M.D., for example).

This is a temporary, part-time (28 hours/week) position.  

Responsibilities

1. Care, breeding, and rearing of zebrafish, as well as conducting genotyping and phenotyping

2. procedures to support ongoing research.

3. Monitor fish facility and laboratory inventory and assist with ordering and stocking of supplies.

4. Operate, calibrate, and maintain fish facility and laboratory equipment.

5. Prepare samples, reagents, and solutions to support ongoing research activities

6. Presenting findings at lab meeting, responds to challenges, and participates in exchanges of ideas to advance the science.

7. Communicating results and collaborates with other professionals in the lab.

8. Preparing figures and diagrams for presentations and publications.

9. Based on results, independently suggesting and testing modifications to protocols.

10. Recording all experimental findings in an electronic laboratory notebook, analyzing and interpreting experimental findings.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Education: College graduate with a Bachelor's in Biological Sciences (Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or Genetics). 
• Experience: Prior research experience in a laboratory setting.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:  

  • Capable of communicating well in English (both orally and in writing). 

  • Self-motivation. 

  • Have enthusiasm for science, scientific discussions, and running experiments. 

  • Have the ability to work alone and with others.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education:  Bachelor's or Master's in Biology, Fisheries, or related fields.

• Experience: Prior Aquaculture experience.

• Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:  Basic understanding of Mendelian genetics.

Work Location 

• Location: Knoxville, TN

• Onsite

Application Instructions 

To express interest, please submit an application with the noted below attachments. To be assured of full consideration, completed applications with all requested materials.

• Resume

• Cover Letter

• List of 3 Professional References

About The Department

The Mechanobiology of Morphogenesis Laboratory is within the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the Tickle School of Engineering of UTK. The newly established Department of Biomedical Engineering has access to expert faculty and world-class research facilities, strong industry ties, and key partnerships with local organizations like Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the UT Medical Center, trainees and students are trained to ready to lead in industry, research, or medicine—and shape the future of biomedical innovation. The new department aims to become an internationally recognized leader in biomedical engineering research and education through strategic growth. The department will strive to integrate principles at the intersection of engineering, science, and medicine to advance research with interdisciplinary collaboration and distinctive excellence; pursue fundamental understanding and solve healthcare problems with innovative technologies; build esteemed and adaptive academic programs that ensure student success and meet evolving workforce needs; and form strong partnerships with healthcare institutions, industry, government, and other sectors for clinical translation of new technologies.

The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has shaped leaders, changemakers, and innovative thinkers since its founding in 1794. The university is home to more than 38,000 students and 10,000 statewide employees—the Volunteers—who uphold the university’s tradition of lighting the way for others through leadership and service. 

UT Knoxville offers over 900 programs of study across 14 degree-granting colleges and schools. As Tennessee’s flagship land-grant university, its footprint spans the entire state. The university holds the highest Carnegie classification for research activity and has deep partnerships with industry leaders and the US Department of Energy’s largest multidisciplinary laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory. 

The Knoxville campus serves and recruits for UT Knoxville, including the Institute of Agriculture and the Space Institute, as well as the UT Institute of Public Service.  

UT Knoxville considers its employees its number one asset. With values that focus on work-life balance, compensation, and innovation leadership, all Vols are supported to advance professionally. Employees have access to career development and coaching, continued education, and an extensive list of development and training possibilities. The Volunteer employee experience implements structures and practices to attract and retain top-tier talent, fostering a strong staff community and supporting a culture of involvement and engagement for everyone. 

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!