Research Specialist A/B

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine

2d•$45,278 - $57,335•Hybrid

About The Position

The Lambi Laboratory at the University of Pennsylvania and the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center (CMCVAMC) is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist A or B to support a growing basic and translational research program focused on extracellular matrix biology, musculoskeletal fibrosis, and tissue regeneration. The laboratory studies cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrotic musculoskeletal disease, with a particular interest in extracellular matrix proteins involved in collagen homeostasis, matrix remodeling, and fibrosis. The position will primarily be based within the CReATE Motion Center/Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center (TMRC) at CMCVAMC, while collaborating with investigators in the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory at Penn and the broader Penn musculoskeletal research community.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in biology, molecular/cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, bioengineering, biomedical sciences, or a related field.
Research Specialist A: 0 to 1 year of relevant laboratory experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Research Specialist B: 2 to 3 years of relevant laboratory experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Strong mammalian cell culture experience is preferred.
Experience with plasmid-based molecular biology, cloning/construct generation, transfection/transduction, and/or CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing is particularly desirable.
The successful B-level candidate should demonstrate greater independence in experimental execution, optimization, troubleshooting, data analysis, and implementation of new techniques.
Candidates should be highly motivated, self-directed, organized, rigorous, collaborative, and enthusiastic about learning new techniques and helping build a new laboratory program.

Nice To Haves

Prior musculoskeletal biology experience is not required at either level.

Responsibilities

Perform mammalian cell culture, including established and primary cell lines, and conduct cell-based experiments examining extracellular matrix production, remodeling, and fibrosis using established or adapted protocols.
Perform plasmid-based molecular biology, including plasmid preparation, cloning/construct generation, transfection/transduction, PCR/qPCR, and related validation assays with guidance as needed.
Assist with gene manipulation workflows, including CRISPR/Cas9 editing and validation, and learn new molecular approaches required for ongoing projects.
Conduct protein and matrix assays, including Western blotting, immunofluorescence/immunocytochemistry, ELISA or related quantitative assays, and recombinant protein characterization as appropriate.
Collect, organize, quantitatively analyze, and present experimental data; maintain rigorous laboratory records and protocols; identify technical problems and work with the PI/collaborators to troubleshoot them.
As projects expand, perform or support histology, immunohistochemistry, quantitative imaging, tissue processing, microCT, 3D culture, and preclinical animal studies.
Maintain laboratory reagents, cell lines, samples, supplies, and equipment and coordinate use of shared resources across Penn and CMCVAMC.
Independently plan, execute, optimize, and troubleshoot mammalian cell culture and cell-based experiments examining extracellular matrix homeostasis, remodeling, and fibrosis (for B level).
Independently perform and optimize plasmid-based molecular biology, including cloning/construct generation, transfection/transduction, PCR/qPCR, and validation of engineered cell systems (for B level).
Establish, optimize, and validate gene manipulation workflows, including CRISPR/Cas9 editing; recommend technical approaches and adapt methods when experiments require new strategies (for B level).
Develop and optimize protein, matrix, and 2D/3D cell-based assays; contribute to experimental design, quantitative analysis, interpretation, and presentation of results (for B level).
Coordinate complex experiments and shared-resource workflows across Penn and CMCVAMC; proactively identify experimental barriers and develop solutions with the PI and collaborators (for B level).
Perform or support histology, immunohistochemistry, quantitative imaging, tissue processing, microCT, and preclinical animal studies as projects expand (for B level).
Maintain rigorous laboratory documentation and quality control; manage reagents/cell lines/samples; help establish laboratory protocols and train students or junior research personnel as the laboratory grows (for B level).

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses.
Exceptional tuition benefits for employees, spouses, and dependent children.
Tuition assistance for dependent children at other institutions.
Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth options.
Wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
Substantial amount of time away from work (vacation, personal affairs, illness, injury, family time).
Long-Term Care Insurance in partnership with Genworth Financial.
Wide variety of programs and resources to support health, family, and work-life balance.
Resources to advance personal and professional development.
Access to a wide range of University resources, cultural and recreational activities (libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries, museums, music/theater presentations).
Discounts on arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, goods, and services (e.g., new cars, cellular phone service, movie tickets, theme parks).
Flexible work options (non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures).
Forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia.
Adoption assistance for qualified expenses related to legal adoption.