Job Details
Research Specialist C
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Posted Job Title
Research Specialist C
Job Profile Title
Research Specialist C
Job Description Summary
The Research Specialist C will conduct molecular and cellular biology research supporting HIV vaccine studies while serving as a senior technical resource within the laboratory. The position will provide training and mentorship to new laboratory personnel, direct assigned research activities, and collaborate with the Principal Investigators and laboratory management team to support the laboratory's scientific mission.
Position contingent upon funding.
Job Description
Job Responsibilities
Position Description
The Research Specialist C position will be responsible for conducting molecular biological and cell culture experiments related to HIV-1 vaccine design and for assisting in the day-to-day management of the laboratory, which includes 10,000 sq ft of research space, a Biosafety Level 2/3 suite, a DNA sequencing core laboratory, 25 staff members, and an annual operating budget in excess of $10 million. Duties of this position include supervision and training of lab staff members in safety protocols and proper research techniques; ordering of research supplies and equipment; and ensuring proper use and upkeep of equipment. This position will be responsible for shared work responsibilities distributed among the 25 lab staff members to maintain efficient, effective and safe operations of the laboratory. This position may have as many as four research staff who report to it for daily assignments in the conduct of basic research projects that are critical to the research mission of the lab. This position will work closely with the Lab Principal Investigators (Drs. George M. Shaw and Beatrice H. Hahn) to oversee and conduct laboratory activities carried out by the 25-member lab staff. The laboratory pursues basic and translational research on global pathogens including HIV, HCV, and COVID, which requires that this position have a high level of scientific understanding along with strong management skills. The individual who fills this position will conduct hands-on bench research related to HIV vaccine development under the direction of Drs. Shaw and Hahn.
Responsibilities
- Conduct cellular and molecular biology experiments using human and rhesus macaque blood and lymphoid tissue in support of HIV vaccine design and pathogenesis research.
- Perform molecular cloning, single genome amplification, DNA sequence analysis, tissue processing, cell isolation, and primary cell culture using established laboratory protocols.
- Analyze, interpret, and document experimental data while maintaining accurate and complete laboratory records.
- Assist with troubleshooting experimental procedures and contribute to optimization of research workflows.
- Oversee onboarding, training, and mentorship of new Research Specialists, graduate students, and rotating students; provide technical guidance and scientific support to laboratory personnel; and coordinate daily research activities and assignments for up to four assigned research staff in support of ongoing laboratory projects.
- Coordinate and oversee assigned laboratory activities and shared responsibilities, including ordering of research supplies and equipment, coordination of equipment maintenance, and ensuring proper use and upkeep of laboratory resources to support efficient, effective, and safe laboratory operations.
- Collaborate with the Principal Investigators and laboratory management team to support laboratory priorities, research objectives, and day-to-day activities.
- Contribute to collaborative research projects, data analysis, and preparation of research findings as assigned.
- Support laboratory safety, regulatory compliance, and operational readiness through adherence to established biosafety protocols, documentation requirements, and institutional policies.
- Perform other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as required or assigned.
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related scientific discipline, and 3-5 years of relevant laboratory research experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Demonstrated experience with cellular and molecular biology techniques and mammalian cell culture.
- Experience working with human biological specimens and maintaining accurate experimental records.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced research environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Demonstrated commitment to laboratory safety and regulatory compliance.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
- Preferred: Bachelor's in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or related sciences.
Preferred Experience
- Experience working with HIV, SIV, SHIV, or other viral systems.
- Experience handling nonhuman primate specimens and working in BSL-2 and/or BSL-3 laboratory environments.
- Prior experience training or supervising laboratory personnel.
- Familiarity with laboratory operations, inventory management, and oversight of shared research facilities.
This position is contingent on grant funding
Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School
Perelman School of Medicine
Pay Range
$58,506.00 - $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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