Research Program Coordinator
The Ludington Lab in the Department of Biology at Johns Hopkins University is seeking a Research Program Coordinator that will support the day-to-day operations of a research laboratory focused on host-microbe interactions in Drosophila melanogaster. The successful candidate will play a critical role in maintaining lab stocks, preparing sterile media, coordinating laboratory logistics, and assisting with ongoing experimental research. This position requires a high level of independence, organizational skill, and attention to detail.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
- Coordinate activities of a research study to assure validity of findings. Ensure adherence to protocols.
- Oversee record management for research study. Set up database using Excel, Access, or similar system.
- Prepare sterile fly food according to established protocols.
- Maintain sterile Drosophila stocks and perform regular sterility checks.
- Prepare sterile bacterial media and ensure quality control through sterility testing.
- Perform genetic crosses, including sorting of virgin flies and identifying balancer phenotypes.
- Conduct colonization assays to evaluate microbial colonization of fly mutants.
- Extract DNA and prepare samples for genomic sequencing.
- Perform occasional mouse husbandry and stool sampling
- Oversee budget expenditures for operations.
- Manage laboratory inventory, place and receive orders for supplies and reagents.
- Coordinate maintenance and service for laboratory equipment and instrumentation.
- Serve as resource for researchers in regard to protocol requirements. Provide technical assistance to laboratory members as needed.
- Abstract data from papers requiring some interpretation.
- May assist in coordinating lab meetings and collaboration meetings.
- Participate in lab meetings and provide update on protocol implementation status and make recommendations on operational issues.
Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Familiarity with Drosophila husbandry and sterile technique strongly preferred.
- Excellent organizational and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
- Familiarity with mouse husbandry.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in a related discipline.
- Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond HS Diploma/Graduation Equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.
Preferred Qualifications
- 10 years of laboratory experience, preferably in molecular biology, biotechnology or microbiology.
- Drosophila husbandry experience.
- Germ-free animal experience.
- Mouse husbandry experience.
Classified Title: Research Program Coordinator
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/03/CD
Starting Salary Range: $17.20 - $30.30 HRLY (Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5 pm
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Homewood Campus
Department name: Biology
Personnel area: School of Arts & Sciences