Research Specialist
We are seeking a Research Specialist to work under Department of Oncology Analytical Pharmacology Core Laboratory (APC). The Research Specialist performs a range of assays and experiments specific to an area of research, requiring a good understanding of the work of the lab. May make contributions to various aspects of research efforts. May include some routine troubleshooting, independent decisions and training/guidance of other lab personnel. The main focus of this laboratory is to determine the concentration of drugs and their metabolites in blood and tissue from clinical or preclinical experiments. This position will be filled by a person who will be responsible for running analytical methods for drug analysis.
- Plan and run set of experiments after discussion with investigator. Work may include making protocol modifications within the parameters set by investigator.
- Utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. reading controls, evaluate results.
- Order equipment and supplies, interface with vendors.
- Use scientific knowledge and lab experience to evaluate whether component parts of experiments are working as they should. Works independently.
- Teach/train students, and new technicians in the lab. May facilitate problem solving for entry-level lab members on day-to-day problems with more challenging research assays.
- May participates in protocol development, efficiency, and productivity. Assists in development of new techniques and instruments.
- Apply published research methods to current experimental work by investigating published protocols and discussing them with PI.
- May contribute to writing manuscripts and grants by writing up methodology sections. Process analyzed data into figures for scientific publications.
- Operates basic laboratory equipment such as centrifuge, pH meter, analytical balance, incubator, scintillation counter and/or utilizes laminar flow hood.
- Prepare all reagents necessary for experiments and use proper sterile techniques to avoid contamination.
- Use various techniques for sample preparation such as protein precipitation, liquid extraction and SPE.
- Operate the UPLC/MS/MS to complete sample analysis for small molecules in various matrices and species (human, mouse, rabbit, plasma and tissue).
- Once analytical run is complete, analyze and interprets data and export results into excel file. Adapts and/or modifies experimental methods based upon interpretation of data.
- Develop UPLC/MS/MS method under supervision
- Complies with biohazard/radiation safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents and/or radiation sources in the workplace.
- Completes annual university biohazard/universal precaution/radiation safety training, as appropriate.
- Uses universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials, including blood-borne pathogens.
- Monitors inventory levels, orders materials and supplies in accordance with established policies and procedures, counts orders upon receipt.
- Complies with the appropriate technical quality controls of all clinical pharmacology test results within the Cancer Center.
- Documents all work performed in accordance with laboratory SOPs. In addition, creates, modified, and interprets laboratory SOP's.
- Follows and stays up-to-date FDA/GLP guidelines to sample validation and analysis.
- Assist with incoming studies samples to ensure samples submitted are labeled correctly and they are all accounted for.
- Put sample information into database to track and store samples at proper conditions.
- Maintains specimen database.
- Performs entry-level pharmacokinetic analysis under supervision.
- Contribute to writing peer reviewed manuscripts and grants.
- Performs other related duties as requested
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.
Classified Title: Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
Starting Salary Range: $17.11 - $29.90 HRLY ($23.51/hour targeted; Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Mon - Fri / 8:30a - 5p
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Onc Analytical Pharmacology Core
Personnel area: School of Medicine