Research Specialist B/C

University of Pennsylvania

20h•Onsite

About The Position

The Center for Epilepsy and Neurodevelopmental Disorders (ENDD) is dedicated to developing therapeutic approaches for genetic neurodevelopmental disorders. The Research Specialist will be an integral part of a fast-paced, collaborative research program focused on creating therapeutic strategies for STXBP1 and SynGAP1 haploinsufficiency. This role involves executing a variety of molecular, cellular, and whole animal approaches to advance pre-clinical translational research, utilizing primary and iPSC neurons as well as mouse models.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in (molecular) biology, neuroscience, (bio)chemistry or related field (Research Specialist B & C).
1-2+ year previous laboratory experience (Research Specialist B).
3-5 years laboratory experience (Research Specialist C).
Willingness to routinely work with mice (Research Specialist B).
Experience with animal models, molecular biology methods, cell culture and protein biochemistry (Research Specialist B).
Experience with using and maintaining mouse models, molecular biology techniques (RNA extraction, RT-qPCR, immunoblotting) and cell culture (Research Specialist C).
Strong computer skills (Research Specialist B).
Organizational skills (Research Specialist B & C).
Ability to communicate effectively with other lab members (Research Specialist B).
Good written and oral communication skills (Research Specialist C).
Self-motivated and reliable team player (Research Specialist C).

Nice To Haves

Work with iPSC cultures preferred (Research Specialist B).
Master’s degree preferred (Research Specialist C).
Primary neuron isolation or iPSC maintenance preferred (Research Specialist C).

Responsibilities

Perform primary neuron (cortical, hippocampal) and astrocyte isolation and ex vivo culture from mouse brains.
Differentiate and maintain iPSC neuronal cell cultures.
Perform compound dosing of primary neurons and mice.
Maintain and coordinate genetically modified mouse colonies of Stxbp1 and SynGAP1.
Genotype genetically modified mouse models.
Harvest tissues from mammalian sources.
Assay transcript and protein content from mammalian tissues.
Prepare solutions, reagents, and media as needed.
Order and maintain laboratory supplies and equipment related to the studies.
Work independently and with team members to manage research projects, data collection and analysis (Research Specialist C).
Identify and resolve technical issues (Research Specialist C).
Oversee aspects of lab organization (Research Specialist C).

Benefits

Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits.
Flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Tuition assistance for employees, spouses, and dependent children at Penn.
Tuition assistance for dependent children at other institutions.
Generous retirement plans (Basic, Matching, and Supplemental) with pre-tax or Roth basis.
Wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
Substantial amount of time away from work (vacations, personal affairs, illness, family time).
Long-term care insurance in partnership with Genworth Financial for faculty and staff and eligible family members.
Wide variety of programs and resources to help balance work and personal life (health, family, work-life balance).
Array of resources for professional and personal development.
Access to University resources (libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries).
Access to cultural and recreational activities (Penn Museum, Annenberg Center, Penn Relays).
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 buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia).
Adoption Assistance (reimbursement for qualified expenses up to two adoptions).