Research Specialist II

Dr. Bryce Chiang’s laboratory (Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University) is hiring a highly motivated and proficient Research Specialist II with a sophisticated understanding of techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from experience with a background in ocular biomechanics and/or drug delivery, to conduct scientific research semi-independently, and manage their own scientific projects. The Research Specialist II will be responsible for assigned daily research projects, utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. reading controls, evaluate results, develop assays and protocols for PI approval and design experimental approaches for research projects. Organizational skills and attention to detail are essential. Our laboratory is interested in developing new strategies and applications for targeted ocular drug delivery. Specifically, we are developing targeted drug delivery systems and testing the role of modulating ocular biomechanics as a novel treatment strategy in glaucoma and other optic neuropathies.

Responsible for assigned daily research projects. Utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. reading controls, evaluate results. Develop assays and protocols for PI approval and design experimental approaches for research projects. Perform a range of sophisticated assays

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

Develop drug delivery formulations and techniques to target specific regions of the eye.
Complete multiple glaucoma model and optic nerve ophthalmic surgeries and intraocular injections in rats, rabbits, and guinea pigs; preparing and dosing animals in drug studies; measuring intraocular pressure using rebound tonometry; obtaining noninvasive ophthalmic images; using injectable or gas anesthetics via commercial rodent anesthesia machine in accordance with USDA and AALAC.
Confocal and/or 2 photon imaging of ocular tissue to determine ocular biomechanics.
Prepare and carry out perfusion fixation and micro-dissection of ocular tissues.
Histological methods performed in this position include cryopreservation and epoxy preparation (embedding and sectioning) for immunofluorescent and/or morphologic studies of animal and human donor eye tissues.
Image capture and data analysis for morphological studies using analysis programs such as Metamorph, Imaris, and ImageJ.
Write and prepare documentation for protocols and may scientifically contribute to writing of manuscripts and grants.
Execute proper disposal of biohazardous materials, maintain laboratory conditions and other duties as assigned by Lab Manager.

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Preferred Qualifications

PhD in biology, biomedical engineering, or related science preferred.
One year experience in an ocular biomechanics laboratory performing relevant techniques is desired.

Classified Title: Research Specialist II
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB
Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 Annually (Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Exempt Status: Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Oph Glaucoma
Personnel area: School of Medicine

Total Rewards
The referenced base salary range represents the low and high end of Johns Hopkins University’s salary range for this position. Not all candidates will be eligible for the upper end of the salary range. Exact salary will ultimately depend on multiple factors, which may include the successful candidate's geographic location, skills, work experience, market conditions, education/training and other qualifications. Johns Hopkins offers a total rewards package that supports our employees' health, life, career and retirement. More information can be found here: https://hr.jhu.edu/benefits-worklife/.

Education and Experience Equivalency
Please refer to the job description above to see which forms of equivalency are permitted for this position. If permitted, equivalencies will follow these guidelines: JHU Equivalency Formula: 30 undergraduate degree credits (semester hours) or 18 graduate degree credits may substitute for one year of experience. Additional related experience may substitute for required education on the same basis. For jobs where equivalency is permitted, up to two years of non-related college course work may be applied towards the total minimum education/experience required for the respective job.

Applicants Completing Studies
Applicants who do not meet the posted requirements but are completing their final academic semester/quarter will be considered eligible for employment and may be asked to provide additional information confirming their academic completion date.

Background Checks
The successful candidate(s) for this position will be subject to a pre-employment background check. Johns Hopkins is committed to hiring individuals with a justice-involved background, consistent with applicable policies and current practice. A prior criminal history does not automatically preclude candidates from employment at Johns Hopkins University. In accordance with applicable law, the university will review, on an individual basis, the date of a candidate's conviction, the nature of the conviction and how the conviction relates to an essential job-related qualification or function.

Diversity and Inclusion
The Johns Hopkins University values diversity, equity and inclusion and advances these through our key strategic framework, the JHU Roadmap on Diversity and Inclusion.

Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

EEO is the Law
https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

Accommodation Information
If you are interested in applying for employment with The Johns Hopkins University and require special assistance or accommodation during any part of the pre-employment process, please contact the Talent Acquisition Office at jhurecruitment@jhu.edu. For TTY users, call via Maryland Relay or dial 711. For more information about workplace accommodations or accessibility at Johns Hopkins University, please visit https://accessibility.jhu.edu/.

Vaccine Requirements
Johns Hopkins University strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The COVID-19 vaccine does not apply to positions located in the State of Florida. We still require all faculty, staff, and students to receive the seasonal flu vaccine. Exceptions to the COVID and flu vaccine requirements may be provided to individuals for religious beliefs or medical reasons. Requests for an exception must be submitted to the JHU vaccination registry. This change does not apply to the School of Medicine (SOM). SOM hires must be fully vaccinated with an FDA COVID-19 vaccination and provide proof of vaccination status. For additional information, applicants for SOM positions should visit https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/coronavirus/covid-19-vaccine/ and all other JHU applicants should visit https://covidinfo.jhu.edu/health-safety/covid-vaccination-information/.

The following additional provisions may apply, depending upon campus. Your recruiter will advise accordingly.
The pre-employment physical for positions in clinical areas, laboratories, working with research subjects, or involving community contact requires documentation of immune status against Rubella (German measles), Rubeola (Measles), Mumps, Varicella (chickenpox), Hepatitis B and documentation of having received the Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccination. This may include documentation of having two (2) MMR vaccines; two (2) Varicella vaccines; or antibody status to these diseases from laboratory testing. Blood tests for immunities to these diseases are ordinarily included in the pre-employment physical exam except for those employees who provide results of blood tests or immunization documentation from their own health care providers. Any vaccinations required for these diseases will be given at no cost in our Occupational Health office.

School of Medicine - East Baltimore Campus

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Johns Hopkins strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine requirement remains unchanged. Exceptions may be provided under certain circumstances. Click here for more information.

Johns Hopkins strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine requirement remains unchanged. Exceptions may be provided under certain circumstances. Click here for more information.

Johns Hopkins strongly encourages, but no longer requires, at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The seasonal flu vaccine requirement remains unchanged. Exceptions may be provided under certain circumstances. Click here for more information..

Research Specialist II