UNIV - Laboratory Specialist I - Department of Medicine: Division of Cardiology

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

8d • $37,944 - $60,690 • Onsite

About The Position

The laboratory of Dr. Federica del Monte at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is seeking a highly motivated individual to join an interdisciplinary research program focused on the heart-brain axis, protein misfolding, and proteotoxicity in neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and one year work experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting, in a health care setting or in a general maintenance or machine shop environment.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid drivers license.
• Computer literacy.
• Ability to work rotating shifts as required.
• Ability to work overtime as required.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

• A strong analytical background.
• Experience with tissue/cell processing and basic molecular assays.
• A genuine interest in protein homeostasis, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disease mechanisms.
• The candidate will assist the Principal Investigator and the post-doctoral fellow.
• The candidate should be capable of conduct independent molecular biology experiments, managing a biological sample biorepository, and coordinating lab operations across interdisciplinary lines.
• A bachelor's degree in a related scientific discipline may be substituted for the required work experience.

Responsibilities

• Assist laboratory staff with routine experimental procedures, including basic molecular and biochemical biology (e.g., Western blotting, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)/genotyping, qPCR), immunocytochemistry/immunohistochemistry (ICC/IHC), cardiac and brain physiology.
• Work with the PI and laboratory team to manage the lab’s specialized tissue and fluid biorepository. Streamline ordering, receiving, and tracking of specialized materials. Manage chemical and reagent inventory, maintain up‑to‑date safety data, and coordinate hazardous waste pick‑ups.
• Work with the PI and laboratory team to consent and schedule patients for clinical studies, input red cap data.
• Define and maintain accurate, up‑to‑date records of laboratory procedures, experimental protocols, equipment logs, and metadata in digital and/or hand‑written form. Track safety training and certification records for lab members, proactively contacting institutional safety offices as needed.
• Maintain, process, and characterize biological specimens (including human tissue samples, biobanked fluids, and murine tissues). Assist with maintaining mouse colonies relevant to Alzheimer's genetics and cardiac phenotypes.
• Respond to occasional laboratory emergencies (e.g., -80°C freezer or liquid nitrogen malfunctions) in a timely manner, including during off‑hours when needed.
• Perform additional duties as requested by the PI to support ongoing translational heart failure and tau-targeting immunotherapy projects, as well as general lab operations.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED