"Research Specialist A"

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn's distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America's Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Job Description Summary

The Gandal and Shalem labs within the Departments of Psychiatry and Genetics at Penn are seeking a Research Specialist to support joint research projects between the two labs. Research in the Gandal lab is focused on studying genes associated with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) using population genetics and human brain functional genomics. Research in the Shalem lab focuses on the development and applications of novel functional genomics tools to study molecular mechanisms that underlie several neurological disorders. The hired candidate will support a new collaboration between the labs to study how recently identified genes and variants associated ASD affect neuronal function. The position will involve cell culture of iPSC lines differentiated into neurons and conducting genetic perturbations followed by imaging-based screening.

Job Description

The Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania is the oldest and one of the finest medical schools in the United States. Penn is rich in tradition and heritage and at the same time consistently at the forefront of new developments and innovations in medical education and research. Since its founding in 1765 the School has been a strong presence in the community and prides itself on educating the leaders of tomorrow in patient care, biomedical research, and medical education. http://www.med.upenn.edu/.

Responsibilities will include overseeing the general operation of the lab (including ordering and receiving supplies, maintaining records and lab equipment, preparing reagents, overseeing safety guidelines, and maintaining neuronal culture lines) and conducting experiments as directed by the Principal Investigator. Experiments will include cell culture, iPSC line maintenance and differentiation, cellular imaging, and genetic perturbation-based screening. Candidates must have strong attention to detail, be able to effectively communicate, and work both collaboratively and independently. Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

B.S / B.A. in biology, neuroscience or related fields and 0-1 year research experience in a biomedical research lab or an equivalent combination of education and experience required. Prior experience with basic molecular biology techniques, neuronal cell culture, imaging, and/or induced pluripotent stem cells is preferred.

Background check required. Position contingent on funding.

Working Conditions

Office, Laboratory

Physical Effort

Typically sitting at a desk or table; Occasional lifting 25 lb. or less

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$44,500.00 - $55,000.00 Annual Rate Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.