Research Specialist B

Research Specialist B

Job Description Summary
Within a laboratory focused on the immunological and virological aspects of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), this position will work under general supervision, independently and in collaboration with others, to perform research supporting projects that utilize molecular biology, immunology, and biophysical techniques. Responsibilities include applying methods such as gene cloning, PCR, site-directed mutagenesis, protein expression, purification and characterization, bacterial and mammalian cell culture, ELISA, HIV virus titration, infectivity assays, and PBMC isolation. The role also involves data collection, analysis, and interpretation of preliminary results; operating specialized equipment, such as Octet BLI following training; troubleshooting experimental procedures; and performing other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as assigned.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform and troubleshoot molecular biology, protein biochemistry, immunology, and virology experiments
• Execute protein expression, purification, and characterization workflows
• Perform cell culture and immunological/virological assays (e.g., ELISA, flow cytometry, infectivity assays)
• Analyze and document experimental data; prepare figures and summaries
• Maintain accurate laboratory records and ensure research reproducibility
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment; prepare reagents and buffers
• Coordinate experimental timelines and support overall laboratory operations
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science and 1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with protein expression and purification, including chromatography-based methods.
• Strong working knowledge of molecular biology and cell culture techniques.
• Experience performing biochemical and immunological assays (e.g., ELISA).
• Ability to work independently within established project goals, troubleshoot experiments, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail; ability to maintain thorough experimental documentation.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills in a team-based research environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with HIV or other viral systems, including virus titration and infectivity assays.
• Experience operating ÄKTA chromatography systems, BLI/Octet instruments, or similar analytical platforms.
• Experience with parallelized or high-throughput protein purification workflows.
• Familiarity with flow cytometry/FACS and related immunological assays.
• Exposure to high-throughput or single-cell platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics).
• Prior experience contributing to publications or supporting collaborative research programs.

Position is contingent upon continued funding.

Job Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School: Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range: $50,000.00 - $57,335.40 Annual Rate

To apply, visit https://wd1.myworkdaysite.com/en-US/recruiting/upenn/careers-at-penn/job/Medical-School-John-Morgan-Bldg/Research-Specialist-B_JR00118689-1