Research Specialist II

The Pathology Department is seeking a proficient Research Specialist II with a firm understanding of techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from some professional experience. Under minimal supervision, performs clinical and/or research laboratory experiments by following established procedures and protocols. Participates in the design of experiments and analyzes data. Works independently and manages daily research projects. The research specialist will assist the principal investigator in the development and coordination of projects, experimentation, data collection/maintenance, and organization of the laboratory. Runs lab tests and completes measurements as assigned. Identifies and resolves problems and uses analytical and decision making skills to implement assigned projects.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Plans and performs experiments after discussion with investigator.
• Creates and maintains cell cultures and performs analysis of cell data.
• Maintains transgenic animal colonies as required by research needs in the Koliatsos Lab
• May assist in animal surgeries and drug treatments in animal models.
• Follows established procedures and protocols, utilizes appropriate technique to develop, perform and analyze experiments, which may include making protocol modification within the parameters set by investigator.
• Reports experimental procedures, results, and problems to PI through planned verbal communication and written/reports and logs. Records outcomes/results of all experiments.
• Is responsible for routine operational activities such as: ordering supplies and materials, reviewing inventory, maintaining up to date records of tests, maintain equipment, ensure adherence with laboratory operation procedures.
• May train students, staff members, and postdoctoral fellows with established SOPs for sample preparation and instrument operation.

Equipment, Machine, or Tool Requirements

• Computer and Laboratory equipment maintaining and operation lab such as: cell culture systems, microtomes, fluorescent and confocal microscopes, HPLC, mass spectrometers, spectrophotometer, centrifuges, freezers, vacuum, etc.

Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Have strong communication skills. Uses various software applications, such as spreadsheets, relational databases, statistical packages, and graphics packages to assemble, manipulate and/or format data and/or test reports.
• Knowledge of good lab practices required. Individual must be able to work independently, under minimal supervision with strong decision-making skills and good judgment.

Specific Physical Requirements

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) up to 70% of the time.
• Occasionally required to traverse throughout the laboratory or to retrieve equipment, supplies, or specimens from other locations on campus.
• The employee is required to operate computer keyboard, laboratory instruments, and small laboratory tools such as pipettes, cutting instruments, glass tubes, dishes, and/or slides.
• Constantly repositions self to perform duties at laboratory workstations, gathering specimens, and loading equipment.
• Prolonged vision requirements including viewing computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results.
• Visual acuity is required to distinguish fine gradation of color or structure and closely examine specimens (including via a microscope).

Laboratory Environment 

• Exposure to toxins and infectious agents exist, but potential for personal injury or harm is minimized if established safety and health precautions are followed.
• Must refer to and are expected to comply with procedure manuals, follow proper laboratory protocols and safety policy/procedures, and be familiar with material data safety sheets in assigned work areas.
• Able to read and understand all Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) guidelines applicable to assigned work area.
• Working in laboratory where there may be discomfort due to odors, noise, temperature fluctuations, and working around lab equipment.
• Research areas may include animal, human, human products, DNA, radiation protocols, and other bio-hazardous materials.
• Use of personal protective equipment may be advised or required.
• May transport equipment and supplies usually less than 40 pounds from one area to another (in the laboratory or on campus (specify).
• May be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with proper training, or precautions/lifting aides (example: supply boxes or Formalin cubes).
• In some areas workspace is limited.
• Staff may be required to complete annual competency review, and must insure compliance with Johns Hopkins Policy, Laboratory Policy & Procedure, Health, Safety & Environment regulations, and all applicable privacy & confidentiality laws/practices.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
• Two years laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

• Course work in related areas in biomedical science, especially neuroscience.

Classified Title: Research Specialist II 
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Research Specialist II   
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB  
Starting Salary Range: Min $40,900 - Max $71,600 Annually ($50,684 targeted; Commensurate with experience) 
Employee group: Full Time 
Schedule: M-F, 8:30am-5:00pm 
Exempt Status: Exempt 
Location: School of Medicine - East Baltimore Campus 
Department name: 10003061-SOM Pat Neuropathology 
Personnel area: School of Medicine