"Research Specialist C"

Research Specialist C

Job Description Summary

A Research Specialist C position is available in the Guo Lab in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania. We are seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual with strong laboratory experience to work closely with the Principal Investigator, students, research specialists, and postdoctoral fellows on basic and translational research focused on in vivo mouse models of ophthalmic disease.
This position is ideal for a candidate with substantial hands-on experience in in vivo mouse procedures, ocular injections (including but not limited to intravitreal and subretinal injections), tissue processing, histology, and microscopy. The Research Specialist will play a central role in executing and advancing projects using animal models of ophthalmic disease, with opportunities for scientific independence, project leadership, and authorship on high-impact publications. The lab offers a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment with strong mentorship and opportunities for professional growth.

Job Responsibilities

• Design, execute, and troubleshoot experiments to meet short- and long-term research objectives in collaboration with the Principal Investigator
• Perform in vivo mouse experiments, including:
  • Ophthalmic and periocular injections (e.g., intravitreal, subretinal, intracameral, periocular)
  • Systemic drug administration as needed
  • Induction and assessment of retinal and optic nerve injury
• Conduct necropsy, tissue harvesting, and eye and retina dissections
• Process ocular tissues for downstream analyses, including:
  • Fixation, cryoprotection, embedding, and sectioning (using cryostat and/or microtome)
  • Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence
  • Microscopy and image acquisition (fluorescence and/or confocal microscopy)
• Maintain and passage cell cultures, including immortalized cells, eye-relevant and primary cell types
• Perform molecular and cellular assays such as RNA extraction, cDNA synthesis, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, and histology
• Analyze data, prepare figures, and lead the generation of presentations, manuscripts, and grant applications
• Maintain accurate, well-organized experimental records, specimen databases, and documentation
• Assist with laboratory operations, including preparation of reagents, equipment maintenance, inventory management
• Ensure compliance with institutional safety, animal care, and regulatory protocols
• Train and supervise students or junior lab members as appropriate
• Contribute scientific and technical expertise across multiple ongoing projects
• Adapt their work hours as dictated by experimental needs

Qualifications

Bachelor of Science and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Position contingent upon funding.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$57,500.00 - $75,000.00 Annual Rate