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.

Posted Job Title

Research Specialist A

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist A

Job Description Summary

We want to find a near term cure for breast cancer within the next 5 years. We are looking for an energetic and talented additional team member to help us with that goal.

The laboratory studies breast and ovarian cancer with the goal of predicting response to therapy and developing new therapies (test new drug candidates). We use cell culture and mouse models and organoids to probe the cellular, molecular pathways important for breast/ovarian cancer response.

Conducts routine experiments and research activities to support project objectives, working under close supervision. Contributes to data collection, experiments, or studies; prepares materials and maintains research tools or resources. Helps manage project documentation and processes to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely completion of deliverables.

Position contingent upon funding.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities

The laboratory technician will be responsible for conducting experiments related to the molecular basis of cancer and assist with translational experiments that will lead to new therapies and clinical trials.

• Duties will include contributing to general laboratory organization and inventories (as part of a team doing this).
• We have considerable need for someone who can do autoradiography to help us with both new radiotracer evaluation and a planned radiotherapy program.
• The technician will assist in the conduct of experiments using both human and animal model systems, including providing and documenting animal care.
• The technician will assist senior lab members in organizing the efforts of undergraduate assistants, participate in regularly scheduled scientific discussions, and assist with the analysis and interpretation of experimental results.
• The technician will closely collaborate with senior lab members and the PI to assist with molecular and genetic experiments, including reagent preparation, cell culture, RNA and DNA extractions, PCR, qPCR, and second and third generation genetic sequencing.
• The nature of this position provides considerable opportunity for motivated candidates to develop and master complex scientific approaches that are broadly applicable to scientific research.
• Communication skills: maintaining accurate, detailed notes; and conveying research findings at group lab meetings is essential.
• Responsibility Breakdown: -- Assist with the patient derived xenograft program - autoradiography - Place orders, manage inventories, and organize deliveries-- Maintain laboratory organization -- Provide assistance with experiments-- Perform additional duties as assigned.

This is a fully on site position.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is require
• Ability to work independently with attention to detail and accurate record keeping are essential. Good communication skills and maintaining a schedule to meet predetermined deadlines. Applicants with a strong desire to broaden their research experience
• The ideal candidate for this position will have experience with molecular biology and biochemical techniques involving cell culture, protein extraction, agarose, and polyacrylamide gel techniques.
• Experience working with animals or radiopharmaceuticals is not required but would be a plus.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$44,500.00 - $50,000.00 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.