Research Specialist
We are seeking a proficient and experienced Research Specialist to process study specimens from HIV research studies in a clinical flow cytometry laboratory. Specimens will be stained with monoclonal antibodies to identify T-cell subsets acquired on flow cytometer and analyzed in flow cytometry analysis software. Candidate must have excellent critical thinking skills as they will be required to troubleshoot analytical, instrument, and sample preparation issues. Applicant will also be responsible for data entry, review and reporting. Proficiency with Microsoft Office is required, and experience with other statistical programs are desired. Position requires an average of 2 Friday evening or Saturday shifts per month.
Candidate will work as part of a team that may provide support for other research projects involving flow cytometry, biomarker assays such as Luminex, MSD or ELISA and/or digital droplet PCR. Experience in one or more of these techniques is desired but not required. After initial training, the successful candidate will work independently or with minimal supervision. Applicants must demonstrate attention to detail, as well as good communication and critical thinking skills. Organization, efficiency, problem solving skills, resourcefulness, and flexibility are required for this position.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities
- Measure T-Cell subsets by flow cytometry in blood samples from patients in HIV studies.
- Preparation of samples for flow cytometric assays.
- Flow cytometry sample acquisition.
- Follow all CLIA regulations in sample processing, data acquisition, analysis and reporting.
- Data interpretation, analysis, and data entry.
- Maintenance of laboratory supplies and laboratory equipment.
- Discussion of testing results with laboratory manager, laboratory director, and core facility users.
- Analysis of data, formulation of conclusions, and creation of appropriate statistical presentations, including graphs and charts, for the purpose of reporting research/laboratory results.
- Using various software applications, such as Microsoft Office, Graphpad Prism, FlowJo and other flow cytometry software programs to analyze, format and present data and/or test reports.
- Rigorous use of universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials, including blood-borne pathogens. Compliance with biohazard safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents in the workplace. Completion of annual university safety training, as appropriate.
- Provide support for other research projects which may include,
- Performance of analyte testing in various biological sample types using MSD and Luminex multiplex formats
- Flow Cytometry assays
Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Excellent organizational and time management skills required.
- Independent and self-motivated, needing little to no supervision.
- Highly organized and detail oriented.
- Ability to manage multiple and competing priorities required.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills required.
- Demonstrated strong, positive interpersonal skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively and work in a collaborative team environment.
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
Specific Physical Requirements
- Ability to occasionally lift up to 20 lbs.
Classified Title: Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
Starting Salary Range: $20.97 - $36.71 HRLY ($56,250 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 5 pm
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Public Health
Department name: W Harry Feinstone Dpt Molec Mblgy Imlgy
Personnel area: School of Public Health