Laboratory Research Specialist
About The Position
The Malaria Research and Vaccine Development laboratory of Professor Stefan Kappe at the School of Medicine Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD), University of Maryland School of Medicine (Baltimore, MD), is seeking a highly motivated Laboratory Research Specialist to support mosquito colony maintenance, malaria parasite lifecycle propagation, and innovative vector-stage malaria research activities. In addition to maintaining mosquito colonies and supporting experimental infections, the successful candidate will contribute at developing in vitro sporozoite production systems capable of generating functional and infectious malaria sporozoites outside the mosquito. While this remains a major technical challenge in the field, successful development of scalable in vitro sporozoite production platforms could have transformative implications for malaria research and the manufacturing of whole-sporozoite malaria vaccines. This is an excellent long-term opportunity for individuals interested in vector biology, insectary operations, infectious disease research, and vaccine development.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry or field of study related to the research of the laboratory.
- Three (3) years of experience including two (2) years in the relevant research specialization.
- May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials and/or ionizing radiation.
- Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Willingness to work flexible schedules when needed for mosquito maintenance.
- Knowledge of position requirements. Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws. Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently. Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to the UMB Core Values of Respect and Integrity, Well-being and Sustainability, Equity and Justice, and Innovation and Discovery.
Nice To Haves
- Interest in insects, vector biology, or infectious disease research.
- Interest in translational research and vaccine manufacturing technologies.
- Prior laboratory insectary or field entomological experience.
- Experience handling mosquitoes or other insect colonies.
- Experience with animal research or microbiological techniques.
Responsibilities
- Maintain Anopheles mosquito colonies and insectary operations.
- Support malaria parasite life cycle maintenance for both human and rodent malaria parasites.
- Assist with mosquito feeding and infection experiments.
- Support ongoing efforts to optimize in vitro mosquito and parasite culture systems for sporozoite production.
- Assist in mosquito infection, parasite transmission, and sporozoite collection procedures.
- Contribute to development and optimization of scalable parasite production workflows relevant to malaria vaccine research.
- Prepare and maintain insectary supplies and equipment.
Benefits
- Comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development
- Retirement program (pension or optional retirement plan/ORP)
- Generous PAID leave package
- Over 4 weeks of vacation accrued each year
- 15 paid holidays
- 3 personal leave
- Unlimited accrual of sick time
- Comprehensive health insurance
- Professional learning and development programs
- Tuition remission for employees and their dependents at any University System of Maryland school
- Flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
