Research Specialist A/B
About The Position
The Shah Lab studies physiologic regeneration, investigating whether restoring cell identity after airway injury is sufficient to restore tissue function. The lab combines airway stem cell biology with quantitative measures of tissue function in mouse and human systems. The Research Specialist will design, execute, and analyze experiments in mouse and human airway systems under the direct supervision of Dr. Viral Shah. Comfort with animal handling and live experiments is required. The ideal candidate will hold themselves to a high standard, work with discipline and consistency, and take ownership of their work, maintaining rigorous written documentation. They should be energized by learning new techniques, tackling challenging problems, collaborating in a team, and contributing to work that can impact patients. Strong communication, sound judgment, and the ability to organize work independently are essential. This role is ideal for recent graduates with foundational lab experience seeking formative research experience before graduate or medical school.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required (for Research Specialist A)
- Some laboratory experience working with molecular biology, cell culture or biochemical techniques
- Willing to work with small laboratory animals and human tissue
- Bachelor of Science and 1 to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required (for Research Specialist B)
- Ability to work independently and to adjust to rapidly changing needs of principal investigators and senior researchers (for Research Specialist B)
Nice To Haves
- Prior experience with animal handling and live experiments is welcome but not necessary; training will be provided.
- Recent graduates should have foundational lab experience.
Responsibilities
- Conduct and analyze experiments in mouse airways (ex vivo, in vico)
- Conduct and analyze experiments in human in vitro systems
- Perform, acquire and analyze experiments using confocal and other advanced microscopy, PCR and immunocytochemistry
- Maintain mouse colony
- Laboratory upkeep (ordering, organization)
- Present at lab meetings, prepare manuscripts for publication and grant submission
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned
- Ex vivo human tissue experiments (Research Specialist B only)
- In vitro mouse experiments (Research Specialist B only)
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
- Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars
- Exceptional tuition benefits for employee, spouse, and dependent children (at Penn and other institutions)
- Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth basis options through TIAA and Vanguard
- Substantial time away from work for relaxation, vacations, personal affairs, illness, injury, or family time
- Long-term care insurance partnership with Genworth Financial
- Wide variety of programs and resources to support health, family, and work-life balance
- Resources for professional and personal development
- Access to a wide range of University resources, cultural and recreational activities (libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries)
- Discounts and special services on arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, goods, and services
- Flexible work options including 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
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
