(Senior) Laboratory Scientist - Metabolomics & Lipidomics

Overview

The successful candidate will perform both targeted and untargeted LC-MS-based metabolomics and lipidomics analyses in the context of biomedical research, while contributing to the development and optimisation of analytical methods. The role involves participation in large-scale clinical cohort studies as well as mechanistic research projects aimed at advancing the understanding of metabolic activity in areas such as cancer, metabolic disorders, and immune function.

The post holder will be expected to lead projects end-to-end, from experimental design and sample preparation through data acquisition, processing, and interpretation. Responsibilities also include ensuring data quality, optimising analytical workflows, and implementing innovative approaches in metabolomics and lipidomics. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with multidisciplinary researchers at LIH, providing scientific expertise and fostering effective communication across teams.

Key Accountabilities

The position will primarily focus on the execution and scientific leadership of metabolomics and lipidomics projects using mass spectrometry (~35%). This includes the operation, maintenance, and optimisation of LC-MS instrumentation (Thermo Orbitrap Exploris 480, Thermo Q Exactive Plus, Agilent Revident QTOF), as well as leading projects from experimental conception through to delivery. The role will involve advanced experimental approaches such as stable isotope labelling, alongside the development and implementation of novel analytical methods tailored to emerging research questions.

A substantial part of the role (~35%) will be dedicated to data processing and analysis. The successful candidate will process and analyse LC-MS data and apply appropriate univariate and multivariate statistical methods to ensure robust interpretation of results.

The post holder will also contribute to training and knowledge transfer (~20%). This includes providing hands-on training and methodological support to users and colleagues in metabolomics and lipidomics workflows, as well as contributing to internal teaching activities such as training sessions and lectures. The role further involves communicating scientific results through presentations at internal meetings and external scientific conferences, thereby supporting knowledge dissemination and enhancing the visibility of the platform.

In addition, the role includes responsibilities related to laboratory management (~10%), ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the platform. This includes maintaining safety standards, overseeing purchasing and consumables, and contributing to the overall organisation and operational efficiency of the laboratory.

Find more information about the lab here: https://www.lih.lu/en/research-scope/research-department/department-of-cancer-research/metabolomics-platform/ 

Key Skills, Experience and Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent experience in analytical chemistry, biochemistry, metabolomics, or a related field.
• Strong hands-on experience with LC-MS instrumentation, especially with Thermo and Agilent instruments.
• Proven expertise in metabolomics and/or lipidomics workflows, including experiment design, metabolite extraction, sample preparation, and data acquisition. Expertise in the context of large cohort studies is highly desirable.
• Experience with method development/method implementation and validation.
• Experience with stable isotope labelling experiments is highly desirable.
• Familiarity with data processing tools and statistical analysis in metabolomics and lipidomics studies, including Thermo and Agilent software packages (e.g. TraceFinder, Compound Discoverer, MassHunter Quan, MassHunter Explorer, Mass Profiler Professional), targeted and untargeted approaches, univariate and multivariate analyses, and power calculations. Programming skills in R, Python, or other relevant tools are a plus.
• Ability to manage projects independently while working collaboratively in a platform environment.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and ability to interact with diverse research teams.
• A proactive and scientifically rigorous mindset, combined with excellent organisational and time-management skills, to efficiently manage multiple tasks and meet strict deadlines.

Applications including a cover letter and a curriculum vitae should be sent before June 12, 2026, via our website www.LIH.lu/jobs with the ref: MC/SLRS526/NL/Metabo

Gender Equality

The LIH is an equal opportunities employer.  We are fully committed to removing any discriminatory barrier related to gender, and not only, in recruitment and career progression of our staff.
The LIH is attentive to gender representation among its leadership staff and aims to eliminate obstacles to recruitment and promotion of female leaders and their career development.