Research Specialist A/B

University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine•CHOP, AZ

3d•$45,278 - $60,202

About The Position

The Amado Laboratory, part of the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, is seeking a Research Specialist A/B to support research developing gene therapy approaches for ALS and related neurodegenerative disorders. The lab uses cellular and mouse models to identify therapeutic targets and develop approaches including AAV-mediated gene delivery, RNA interference, gene editing, and antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs). The specialist will help design, conduct, and analyze experiments using immortalized cell lines, patient-derived stem cells, and mouse models of nervous system diseases. The role involves working collaboratively, applying and troubleshooting laboratory techniques, and consulting published literature to identify effective, reliable, and novel strategies. Strong organization and record-keeping are required. Both levels are expected to contribute to publications. Research Specialist B duties are more autonomous and independent and also include assisting with figure generation, Methods writing, and other manuscript preparation. The position is contingent upon continued funding.

Requirements

Research Specialist A: Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 year of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Research Specialist B: Bachelor of Science and 1 to 2 years of experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
For Research Specialist B, prior experience with mammalian cell culture, including transfection, and molecular/cell biology is required.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Excellent organizational, time management, and critical thinking skills.
Openness to working with mice is required.

Nice To Haves

For Research Specialist A, prior experience with mammalian cell culture, including transfection, and molecular/cell biology is preferred.
Prior experience working with mice is preferred for Research Specialist A and strongly preferred for Research Specialist B.
Experience with DNA/RNA/protein extraction, QPCR, western blotting, molecular cloning, PCR, and cell culture, including maintenance and transfection.
Knowledge of or willingness to learn tissue extraction techniques, especially from brain, spinal cord, or peripheral nerve, and behavior testing.
Experience with sectioning, immunohistochemistry, or immunofluorescence.
Experience with imaging acquisition and analysis.

Responsibilities

Help design, conduct, and analyze experiments using immortalized cell lines, patient-derived stem cells, and mouse models of nervous system diseases.
Use laboratory techniques and troubleshoot experiments, drawing on published literature to identify effective and novel strategies.
Maintain excellent organization and records.
Contribute to publications from the lab.
For Research Specialist B, work with greater independence and assist with figure generation, Methods writing, and other manuscript preparation.

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses.
Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children, including dependent-child tuition assistance at other institutions.
Basic, matching, and supplemental retirement plans, with pre-tax or Roth savings options.
Substantial time away from work during the year.
Long-term care insurance.
Wellness and work-life programs and resources.
Professional and personal development resources.
Access to University resources, including libraries, athletic facilities, cultural activities, and recreational activities.
Discounts and special services, including arts and entertainment, transportation, and other goods and services.
Flexible work options and hours.
Forgivable home-ownership loan for eligible employees buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia.
Adoption expense reimbursement for eligible employees, for up to two adoptions in the household.