Mass Spectrometry Imaging Specialist

New Jersey’s academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University–New Brunswick and collaborating university wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and five centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.

Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.

Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state—at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, including Piscataway, and at locations in Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Stratford, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Newark’s University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.

Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.

Rutgers RBHS is an anchor institution that boasts locations in Newark, New Jersey, a city of promise.

The Mass Spectrometry Imaging Specialist will be a key member of CAPR specializing in molecular imaging, lipidomics, and metabolomics research projects. In addition to assisting core users, the Specialist will primarily work with Dr. Wong to design and execute experiments as well as analyze the resulting data. Experience in MS imaging is desirable. Preferred expertise includes proficiency in using the Waters DESI source, UPLC and Synapt XS platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

Experimental Design and Implementation:

• Work with Dr. Wong and CAPR customers to design MSI experiments, as well as LC/MS-based lipidomics and metabolomics studies.
• Prepare samples, set up instrumentation, and conduct mass spectrometry imaging and LC/MS lipidomics or metabolomics experiments.
• Ensure adherence to established protocols and safety standards.

Data Processing and Analysis:

• Process raw MSI and LC/MS data using available software for visualization, quantification, and data interpretation.
• Work with NJMS Molecular and Genomics Informatics Core for additional or more in-depth data analysis.
• Generate high-quality images and provide satisfactory data analysis to researchers for publications and grant applications.

Instrumentation Maintenance and Troubleshooting:

• Conduct maintenance on MSI & LC/MS equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Address hardware and software issues and coordinate with vendors for necessary repairs and upgrades.

Training and Support:

• Provide training to Dr. Wong’s research group and core users on sample preparation, instrument operation, and data analysis techniques, for large scale projects.
• Assist in the interpretation of MSI, lipidomics, and metabolomics results.
• Maintain detailed records of experiments, data analysis, and instrument maintenance.
• Backup data properly for future analyses.
• Prepare reports, protocols, and standard operating procedures.
• Assist researchers to comply with NIH or journal data sharing plans.
• Study advancements in MSI, LC/MS lipidomics, and technology, and implement new methods and technologies.
• Invent new techniques and protocols and engage in collaborative research projects.

Qualifications:

• Master’s plus 3 years experience or Ph.D. degree in a relevant field
• Documented experience in MSI, LC/MS-based lipidomics or, metabolomics including sample preparation, instrument operation, and data analysis.
• Proficiency with Waters DESI and Synapt platforms is preferred.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others.
• Attention to detail, and commitment to maintaining high-quality standards.

• Familiarity with biostatistical analysis, data visualization, pathway analysis and other bioinformatics tools.
• Previous experience in a core facility or research support role is preferred.
• Additional expertise in related analytical techniques (e.g., proteomics, GC-MS, etc.).