Research Specialist A

Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

1d•$45,278 - $51,000•Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Research Technician to join our laboratory at the Center for Neurodegenerative Disease Research (CNDR). The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research investigating the role of TDP-43 protein aggregation in glial cells and its involvement in Frontotemporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD-TDP), Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), and related neurodegenerative disorders. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative research environment and gain experience with advanced cellular and molecular approaches used to study disease mechanisms.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree (B.A./B.S.) in Biology, Neuroscience, or a related field and 0-1 year of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience required.
Previous research experience, preferably in a neuroscience, neurobiology, or cell biology laboratory.
Experience with cell culture techniques is highly desirable.
Experience with standard molecular biology, histology, and microscopy techniques is highly desirable.
Strong organizational, time management, and record-keeping skills.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrated commitment to scientific excellence, research integrity, and reproducible research practices.
Ability to prioritize multiple projects and maintain attention to detail in a fast-paced research environment.

Responsibilities

Conduct research on neurodegenerative diseases using primary rodent and iPSC-derived cellular models, applying a range of cell biology, molecular biology, and imaging techniques.
Design and perform experiments.
Analyze and interpret data.
Maintain cell cultures and accurate research records.
Contribute to publications, presentations, and collaborative scientific activities within the laboratory at the Center of Neurodegenerative Disease Research (CNDR).
Independently perform experiments using primary rat and mouse oligodendrocyte cultures, as well as induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived neuronal and glial models.
Conduct a variety of in vitro assays, such as transfection, transduction, biochemical analyses, and immunocytochemistry.
Perform cell culture-related activities, including the establishment of non-neuronal cell lines, cryopreservation, thawing, and routine cell propagation, as needed.
Analyze experimental data and contribute to data interpretation.
Collaborate with research team members to design and execute experiments.
Maintain accurate and detailed records of experimental procedures and results.
Assist in the preparation of research reports.
Contribute to scientific manuscripts and presentations as appropriate.
Participate in laboratory meetings, scientific discussions, and Center activities.
Attend and present research findings at laboratory meetings and other Center-related events.

Benefits

Excellent healthcare benefits for employees and their families
Tuition benefits for employees and their families
Generous retirement benefits
Wide variety of professional development opportunities
Supportive work and family benefits
Wealth of health and wellness programs and resources
Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits
Flexible spending accounts for health care and dependent care expenses
Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children at Penn and potentially other institutions
Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth options and investment choices through TIAA and Vanguard
Substantial time away from work (vacations, personal affairs, illness, family time)
Long-Term Care Insurance through Genworth Financial
Wellness and Work-life Resources
Professional and Personal Development resources
Access to a wide range of University resources, cultural and recreational activities (libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries)
Discounts and special services (arts and entertainment, transportation, mortgages, new cars, cellular phone service, movie tickets, theme parks)
Flexible work options (non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures)
Penn Home Ownership Services (forgivable loan for eligible employees in West Philadelphia)
Adoption Assistance (reimbursement for qualified expenses up to two adoptions)