Research Specialist
The Coyne lab uses induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived neuron (iPSN) and postmortem human tissue models to understand the mechanistic basis and pathophysiologic consequences of impaired nuclear pore complex (NPC) and nuclear envelope surveillance and homeostasis in neurodegenerative diseases such as Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).
The Research Specialist will assist with various projects in the lab and primarily be responsible for the maintenance and differentiation of iPSNs, processing of samples for western blot and qRT-PCR and carrying out western blots and qRT-PCR experiments. The Specialist may also assist with immunostaining and confocal imaging as required. We are looking for a proficient Research Specialist with a sophisticated understanding of techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from professional experience. The individual will work independently to carry out daily tasks with oversight from the PI.
The research technologist will participate in planning experiments and evaluating/interpreting test results utilizing detailed knowledge of research laboratory procedures and practices. The individual should be capable of independent judgment in the selection, development, performance and evaluation of research methods and operation of appropriate equipment.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
- Monitors biohazard safety standards and proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents in the workplace.
- Completes annual university biohazard/universal precaution safety training, as appropriate.
- Uses universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials, including blood-borne pathogens.
- Plan and execute a defined set of experiments following discussion with the principal investigator.
- Prepares solutions and reagents following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.
- Will need to maintain excellent written records and electronic databases.
- Performs general lab maintenance duties such as monitoring of inventory levels and proper storage of materials and supplies in accordance with established policies and procedures.
- Participates in the organization and operation of the laboratory.
- Uses various software applications, such as Excel spreadsheets, electronic mail, World Wide Web, statistical packages, and graphics packages to assemble and/or format data.
- Follows established procedures or protocols and utilizes aseptic technique to perform laboratory experiments which include: iPSN culture (passaging and maintenance), qRT-PCR, western blotting, cloning and/or subcloning, immunostaining, and other basic cell and molecular biology techniques.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
- One year 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
- Some knowledge of or experience with aseptic mammalian cell culturing preferable but not required.
- Basic understanding of or experience with western blotting, qRT-PCR, or immunostaining preferable but not required.
Classified Title: Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
Starting Salary Range: $16.92 - $29.61 HRLY ($38,000 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: M-F/8:30am-5:00pm
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: Neurodegenerative and Injury Program
Personnel area: School of Medicine