Research Associate II - Diabetes and Metabolic Physiology

Research Associate II - Diabetes and Metabolic Physiology

Arkansas Colleges of Health Education

in Fort Smith, AR

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Type: Full-Time

Posted: 07/10/2025

Category: Laboratory and Research

Research Associate II - Diabetes and Metabolic Physiology

JOB SUMMARY

The Research Institute Health and Wellness Center (RIHWC) at the Arkansas Colleges of Health Education (ACHE) has launched a major research initiative in the creation of a Center for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolomics Research. We recognize the rapidly growing interest and urgent need for innovation in diabetes research, particularly as it relates to the physiological, nutritional, and metabolic mechanisms underlying the development and progression of metabolic disorders. In parallel, the fields of personalized medicine, metabolomics, and lifestyle-based interventions are undergoing transformative change, capturing broad public, clinical, and scientific attention. ACHE is now seeking a Research Associate with significant experience, expertise, and interest in human and animal research focused on diabetes pathophysiology, nutritional metabolism, and systems-level metabolic regulation. This Research Associate will work closely with RIHWC research faculty in neuroscience, cardiovascular and metabolic physiology, immunology, nutritional and exercise science, and metabolomics to advance interdisciplinary research aimed at improving metabolic health outcomes. The position is a full 1.0 FTE salary supported position with a 12-month appointment. The RIHWC maintains a fully functional Clinical Research Center (~4,000 ft2), Exercise Science laboratory that is a component of the Center for Rehabilitation Research (~5,000 ft2), and Biomedical Resource Center (~30,000 ft2). These resources are complete with bench research space and Core Centers of Histology and Microscopy, and Proteomics & Metabolomics. The Research Associate will report to the Director of Translational Research. ACHE provides a full fringe benefit package to staff employees complete with health and retirement benefits.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Assist in the development and devising of experimental protocols in the study of metabolic physiology and medicine. These protocols include but are not limited to daily experimental procedures as well as complex protocols in the study of exercise physiology and metabolomics that provide effective and fundable grant submission studies.

Manage and train staff in the use and maintenance of laboratory equipment related to the study of exercise physiology and metabolomics.

Assist the Director of Translational Research with communications, protocol design and development and conducting of studies in both human and rodent models.

Work effectively and cooperatively with principal investigators conducting studies within all of Translational Research.

Oversee and assist in the management of the ACHE Research Institute Core Histology and Microscopy Center. These duties include but are not limited to assisting in the training of students and other technical staff in the use of all equipment within this Core.

Work jointly and in cooperation with the Research Operations Coordinator in the marketing of services and operational coordination of the Core Histology and Microscopy Center.

Create, manage and implement effective databases for analysis and presentation of research activities conducted within the Center for Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolomics.

Other duties as assigned by the Director of Translational Research or their designee.

QUALIFICATIONS AND CREDENTIALS

Education and Experience

Minimum Qualifications (Needed to do the job)

Ph.D. in Physiology, Biochemistry, Nutritional Science, Biomedical Sciences, or related field or Master's degree in biomedical science, exercise science with 4 years of experience.

Animal research experience minimum of 4 years.

Experience assisting with clinical or translational research studies involving human subjects, either as a research assistant, coordinator, or technician.

Bench research in biochemical techniques (bioassays, histology and immunochemistry, PCR and quantitative PCR technologies and/or electrochemical detector expertise).

Preferred Qualifications

Experience working with transgenic or diet-induced rodent models of diabetes/metabolic syndrome.

Background in histology (e.g., tissue embedding, sectioning, immunohistochemistry).

Familiarity with cell culture techniques.

Prior involvement in IRB/IACUC protocol submissions and compliance processes.

Publication experience in biomedical science or exercise physiology.

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities

Demonstrate proficiency in computer skills, i.e. Microsoft Office.

Display professionalism for the college in all communication and interaction.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and privacy.

Ability to prioritize and organize numerous and varied assignments.

ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES ESSENTIAL TO THE FUNCTION OF THE JOB

Communication and Comprehension

ACHE is in full compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and does not discriminate with regard to applicants or employees with disabilities and will make reasonable accommodations when necessary. The following are essential abilities and physical requirements for all positions at the college.

Ability to orally communicate effectively with others with strong interpersonal skills and customer service orientation.

Ability to work cooperatively with colleagues and supervisory staff at all levels.

Ability to understand oral and written information, using the English language, and organize thoughts and ideas into effective forms of communication.

Ability to make decisions which range from moderate to a significant impact on the immediate work environment, as well as outside contributors.

Possess public communication skills that allow professional representation of ACHE to a variety of business and community customers and associates.

Strong organizational skills.

Problem Solving

Intuitively able to reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment in order to solve problems of both a routine and complex nature.

Expertise in negotiation.

Physical and Sensory Abilities

May be exposed to short, intermittent, and/or prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing in performance of job duties.

May be required to accomplish job duties using various types of equipment/supplies to include, but not limited to pens, pencils, calculators, computer keyboards, telephone, etc.

May be required to transport oneself to other campus offices, conference rooms, and on occasion, to off-campus sites to attend meetings, conferences, workshops, seminars, etc.

May require significant travel or work away from campus.

Requires attendance at events representing ACHE both within as well as outside of the college setting.

Frequently required to work at a desk, conference table or in meetings of various configurations.

Frequently required to see for purposes of reading matter.

Frequently required to hear and understand speech at normal levels.

Occasionally required to lift items in a normal office environment.

Frequently required to operate office and presentation equipment.

If you need assistance in the application process because of a disability, or any other reason, please contact Vicki Broadaway, Vice President of Human Resources, at ... or ....

Arkansas Colleges of Health Education is an equal opportunity employer.

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