Job Req ID:  114095

Research Technologist

We are excited to identify and welcome a new Research Technologist to the Michaelis Lab research team in the Department of Cell Biology at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.


The overall goal of research in the Michaelis Lab is to dissect fundamental cellular processes relevant to human health and disease, using mammalian cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and high-throughput genomic/transcriptomic/proteomic approaches.


  • We are studying a premature aging disease called Hutchinson-Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), which is caused by mutations that disrupt processing of the nuclear scaffold protein lamin A by an intriguing membrane protease called ZMPSTE24. As a Research Technologist, you would be involved in defining cell biological features of lamin A processing, molecular mechanisms of unprocessed lamin A toxicity in HGPS, mechanistic features of the ZMPSTE24 membrane protease, therapeutic strategies for HGPS, and importantly, molecular links between premature and normal physiological aging.
  • A new and exciting project in our lab focuses on defining a surprising and recently discovered role for ZMPSTE24 in protecting cells against infection by many different viruses. As a Research Technologist you would participate in cell biological studies to test our hypothesis that ZMPSTE24 has a novel quality control role in determining the proper membrane insertion and topology of a transmembrane protein, IFITM, that is known to stiffen membranes and prevent viral-host cell fusion.


We welcome new lab members who enjoy being part of a collaborative team doing state-of-the-art, fast-moving research and are committed to maintaining an engaging and inclusive research environment.


Specific Duties & Responsibilities

  • Collaborate with senior researchers to design and plan experiments.
  • Independently conduct experiments while adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines.
  • Perform PCR, DNA cloning, vector construction, preparation of DNA and production of lentiviruses for gene manipulation, including transfection and transduction.
  • Perform SDS-PAGE and Western analysis.
  • Carry out cell culture with primary patient cells and established cell lines, such as HeLa and HEK293.
  • Employ imaging techniques (immunohistochemistry, confocal, and electron microscopy) to visualize protein localization and alteration of organelles in cells.
  • Record and analyze data, utilizing software tools for statistical analysis and visualization.
  • Organize, prepare, and manage laboratory reagents ensuring equipment and material are ready for experiments.
  • Contribute to maintaining a clean and safe working environment, following proper waste disposal procedures.
  • Keep detailed and accurate records of experimental procedures, observations, and outcomes.
  • Assist in preparing research findings for presentations at lab meetings, conferences, and publications.
  • Collaborate effectively with fellow researchers, sharing insights, troubleshooting, and contributing to a dynamic scientific dialogue.
  • Communicate experimental results clearly in discussions, lab meeting presentations, and written reports.
  • Embrace the lab's inclusive culture by fostering a collaborative and respectful environment.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Ability to troubleshoot experimental protocols and identify potential technical issues.
  • Strong analytical skills to interpret complex data and contribute to scientific discussions.
  • Detail-oriented approach for precise documentation of experiments, protocols, and results.
  • Excellent time management skills to handle multiple tasks, prioritize, and meet project deadlines.
  • Effective interpersonal skills to collaborate with a diverse team and contribute to a harmonious work environment.
  • Adaptable mindset to embrace new challenges and pivot research directions as needed.


Minimum Qualifications
  • Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.


Preferred Qualifications
  • At least two years of undergraduate research experience in a similar laboratory.
  • Some related post-undergraduate work experience.
  • Educational background in the realm of cell biology
  • Training in biosafety protocols and adeptness in handling viral vectors within laboratory environments.

 


 

Classified Title: Research Technologist 
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CC  
Starting Salary Range: $15.50 - $26.00 HRLY ($35,000 targeted; Commensurate with experience) 
Employee group: Limited 
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5pm 
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt 
Location: School of Medicine Campus 
Department name: ​​​​​​​SOM Cell Bio Cell Biology  
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