Research Specialists

Open Date 01/22/2026

Requisition Number PRN
44089B

Job Title Research Specialists

Working Title Research Specialists I

Career Progression Track P00

Track Level P1 - Entry Level Pro

FLSA Code Professional

Patient Sensitive Job Code? No

Standard Hours per Week 40

Full Time or Part Time? Full Time

Shift Day

Work Schedule Summary

VP Area U of U Health - Academics

Department 00219 - Neurobiology Research

Location Campus

City Salt Lake City, UT

Type of Recruitment External Posting

Pay Rate Range $27,194 to $62,386

Close Date 04/27/2026

Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time)

The Osterhout Laboratory in the Department of Neurobiology is seeking a motivated Research Specialist I or II, depending upon previous experience, to support NIH‑funded research investigating the neural and immune mechanisms underlying sickness behaviors, such as pain sensitivity, and neuroimmune communication. The lab uses cutting‑edge neurobiology approaches including mouse behavioral assays, histology, chemo genetics, viral circuit tracing, single‑cell transcriptomics, and spatial transcriptomics.

The Research Specialist will work closely with lab members to:

• Set up and conduct experiments following established protocols in molecular neuroscience and immunology.
• Perform mouse handling, husbandry, surgical procedures, and behavioral testing.
• Prepare and process mouse brain tissue for histology, immunostaining, in-situ hybridization, and imaging.
• Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and contribute to research documentation (manuscripts, reports, presentations, and grant materials).
• Remain current on relevant research methods and laboratory techniques.

Learn more about the great benefits of working for University of Utah: benefits.utah.edu

The department may choose to hire at any of the below job levels and associated pay rates based on their business need and budget.

• Set up and conduct experiments under close supervision.
• Perform routine mouse handling, injections (i.p., s.c.), and basic husbandry.
• Assist with mouse behavioral assays.
• Prepare tissue samples for histology, immunostaining, and imaging.
• Perform basic data entry, organization, and preliminary analysis.
• Maintain lab stocks, reagents, and equipment.
• Assist with preparation of research documentation.
• Follow established protocols with limited independent judgment.

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related experience, or
• Master’s degree (or equivalency)

This is an Entry-Level position in the General Professional track.

Job Code: P56431

Grade: P12

Expected Pay Range: $27,194 to $62,386

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT : 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor’s degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).

Department may hire employee at one of the following job levels:

• Research Specialist, I:
  Requires a bachelor’s (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master’s (or equivalency) degree.

Type Benefited Staff

The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education for historically underrepresented students.

Individuals from historically underrepresented groups, such as minorities, women, qualified persons with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.

The University of Utah is an Affir­missive Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The…