Research Specialist C
Research Specialist C
Job Description Summary
The candidate will have a central role in supporting the research mission of the High-Throughput Screening (HTS) Core by leading efforts in recombinant protein expression, purification, and characterization. This individual will generate high-quality protein reagents to enable assay development, small-molecule and genetic screening, and mechanistic follow-up studies for a wide range of collaborative research projects. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in protein biochemistry, excellent organizational and communication skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with investigators across diverse biomedical disciplines.
The candidate will independently design strategies for recombinant protein expression and purification using bacterial, insect, and/or mammalian systems. The ability to develop, optimize, and troubleshoot purification protocols using chromatographic methods (e.g., affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion) to achieve proteins with appropriate yield, purity, and activity is essential. The candidate will also be required to characterize purified proteins using biochemical and biophysical assays, including but not limited to SDS-PAGE, Western blot, activity assays, and differential scanning fluorimetry. The ability to perform other basic molecular biology assays such as PCR and DNA gel electrophoresis is required. The Candidate will independently coordinate recombinant protein expression and purification on a daily to weekly basis. They will also be responsible for maintaining articulate documentation of workflows and contribute to data quality control to ensure reproducibility. The candidate will also be required to read relevant scientific literature to for establishing new technologies and protocols for recombinant protein expression and purification in the laboratory. They will provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff and trainees in protein purification and collaborate with HTS scientists to adapt purified proteins for use in biochemical and cell-based assay platforms. In conjunction with the Scientific and Technical Directors, engage with faculty to plan and execute protein production strategies that support new screening initiatives.
Job Responsibilities
- Recombinant Protein purification
- Eukaryotic Cell culture including Sf9 and Expi293 cells
- Design Protein Expression Vectors
- Recombinant Protein Production in E. coli
- Maintain articulate work records and create data reports
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related field with 3+ years of postdoctoral or relevant experience, or M.S. with 7+ years of hands-on protein purification experience preferred
- Proven expertise in recombinant protein production, purification, and characterization is required, including familiarity with operation and maintenance of chromatography systems (e.g., ÄKTA or equivalent). A strong record of collaborative research and excellent written and oral communication skills is required. Experience in an academic core, shared resource, or service-oriented environment is highly desirable.
Job Location
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School
Perelman School of Medicine
Pay Range
$57,500.00 - $67,794.79 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.
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