Forensic Scientist

Job Title
Forensic Scientist


Requisition Number
RE51217


Working Title

Department Name
7P170:Dept of Epidemiology & Environ Health


Work Location
Lexington, KY


Grade Level
44


Salary Range
$43,805-70,075/year


Type of Position
Staff


Position Time Status
Full-Time


Required Education

MS



Click here for more information about equivalencies:
https://hr.uky.edu/employment/working-uk/equivalencies


Required Related Experience

No experience required.



Required License/Registration/Certification

None.



Physical Requirements

Lifting up to 10 pounds, sitting or standing for extended periods of time.



Shift

Typically Monday – Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Additional hours including weekends when needed.



Job Summary

The University of Kentucky Harm Reduction Hub is seeking a highly motivated Forensic Scientist to support our residue checking work. This position is responsible for processing and analyzing human-derived drug residue samples (primarily from used syringes) using advanced analytic techniques such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The Forensic Scientist will interpret complex analytical data, contribute to the identification of substances in the unregulated drug supply, and support public health communication efforts in collaboration with a transdisciplinary team of researchers and harm reduction partners. The position also includes responsibility for maintaining laboratory safety and quality assurance standards and supervising student interns engaged in laboratory support tasks. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong background in chemistry, forensic toxicology, or related fields who are passionate about applying science to address real-world public health challenges through harm reduction approaches.

IEBC (Internal Employee Being Considered).



Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Must be able to operate a gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS).



Does this position have supervisory responsibilities?
Yes


Preferred Education/Experience

Master’s in forensic toxicology or related field and experience analyzing syringe residues.



Deadline to Apply
08/14/2025


Our University Community

We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.


As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we strongly encourage veterans, individuals with disabilities, women, and all minorities to consider our employment opportunities.


Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.