UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Neurosciences

Medical University of South Carolina•Charleston, SC

1d•$37,200 - $59,500•Onsite

About The Position

The Li Lab in the Department of Neuroscience at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist I to join a dynamic and growing neuroscience research program. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to gain comprehensive training in molecular biology, genetics, microscopy, image analysis, and animal research while contributing to cutting-edge discoveries in nervous system development and function. The Li Lab investigates how neurons communicate with glial cells to shape brain development, plasticity, and function. Our research focuses on oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells of the central nervous system, and their interactions with neurons. We combine molecular genetics, CRISPR-based approaches, advanced microscopy, and in vivo imaging in zebrafish to study these questions at cellular and molecular resolution. As a relatively new and rapidly growing laboratory, this position provides a unique opportunity to participate in all aspects of research, from experimental design and data collection to analysis and laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will be intellectually curious, eager to learn, highly organized, and enthusiastic about contributing to a collaborative research environment. The position is particularly well suited for individuals seeking substantial research experience and professional development through sustained participation in an active research program. Successful candidates will be expected to develop increasing levels of independence in experimental execution, troubleshooting, data analysis, and project ownership.

Requirements

A high school diploma and two years work experience in a clinical or research setting; a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science may be substituted for the two years of required experience.
Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent)
Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous)
Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent)
Ability to climb, using step stool. (Infrequent)
Ability to work in temperature extremes (32° F to 100° F) when required due to assignments in cold rooms and/or foreign countries. (Infrequent)
Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Continuous)
Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent)
Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent)
Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous)
Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent)
Ability to fully use both legs. (Frequent)
Ability to reach in all directions, stretch, bend, while moving items/materials from both sitting and standing positions. (Frequent)
Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function/distinction. (Continuous)
Ability to lift materials up to 20 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent)
Ability to lift and carry 4 liter waste material bottles a distance of 30 feet, unassisted. (Frequent)
Ability to lift and carry 25-30 lbs. jugs of liquid a distance of 100 feet, unassisted. (Infrequent)
Ability to lift file boxes, from floor level to counter tops, unassisted. (Frequent)
Ability to push/ Ability to lift 40 lbs. centrifuge rotors from floor level to height of 40 inches, then down 20 inches into centrifuge drum, unassisted. (Infrequent)
Ability to lift 25 lbs. boxes, from floor level to maximum height of 72 inches, unassisted. (Infrequent)
Ability to push/pull file boxes from one location to another at floor level. (Frequent)
Ability to maneuver heavy equipment on bench tops, 50 lbs. or greater, unassisted. (Frequent)
Ability to perform gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements. (Continuous)
Ability to maintain 20/40 vision, corrected, in one eye or with both eyes. (Continuous)
Ability to match or discriminate between colors, normally. (Continuous)
Ability to hear and recognize various alarms emitting from work area systems. (Continuous)
Ability to hear and/or understand conversations. (Continuous)
Ability to work in a darkroom for processing film, etc. (Continuous)
Ability to be qualified physically for respirator use, initially and annually. (Continuous)
Ability to work rotating shifts as required.
Ability to work overtime as required.
Ability to learn and use new processes, tools and equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

Prior undergraduate research experience.
Experience with molecular biology, microscopy, image analysis, animal research, or computational analysis.
Demonstrated curiosity, problem-solving ability, and enthusiasm for scientific research.
Interest in developing increasing levels of experimental independence and project ownership.
Prior zebrafish experience is not required; training will be provided.

Responsibilities

Conduct and support neuroscience research projects under the supervision of the principal investigator.
Assist with experimental planning, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
Contribute to the development and optimization of new experimental approaches.
Maintain and expand zebrafish colonies.
Perform breeding, embryo collection, genotyping, transgenesis, and CRISPR-based experiments.
Assist with animal care and management of the zebrafish facility.
Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, DNA/RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, CRISPR/Cas9 tool development, and immunohistochemistry.
Assist with microscopy, image analysis, and quantitative data processing.
Prepare reagents, maintain laboratory stocks, and support ongoing experiments.
Assist with ordering, inventory management, equipment maintenance, and general laboratory organization.
Help maintain a productive, collaborative, and safe research environment.
Participate in laboratory meetings, journal clubs, and scientific discussions.
Assist with preparation of figures, manuscripts, presentations, and grant-related materials.
Present research findings within the laboratory and at institutional events as appropriate.
Perform other research-related duties as assigned.