UNIV - Research Specialist II - Department of Biochemistry

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

9d

About The Position

The department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at MUSC has an opening for a motivated and collegial Research Specialist in the laboratory of Dr. Jennifer Stancill. The lab focuses on pancreatic beta-cells, which secrete insulin in response to an increase in blood sugar and are damaged or destroyed during the progression of diabetes. The lab works in vitro (mammalian cell culture), ex vivo (mouse and human tissues), and in vivo (mouse models). Experimental techniques we use include qPCR, SDS PAGE, western blot, ELISA, plate reader assays, and fluorescence microscopy, among others. While experience in these systems and techniques is welcome, hands-on training will be provided for all required tasks. More information about the Stancill lab can be found on the lab website: https://stancilllab.owlstown.net/

Requirements

• A bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science and one year work experience directly related to the assigned research area.
• Must have the ability to think creatively and work independently as well as part of a team.
• 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

• Previous experience in mouse husbandry and handling and tissue culture are preferred but not required. Training will be provided if applicant has no prior experience in these techniques.

Responsibilities

• Mouse husbandry, handling, and experimentation Maintain mouse colonies (setting up breeding pairs, weaning, ear tagging, genotyping, etc.) Assist in isolation of pancreatic islets from mice.
• Basic biochemical and molecular biology experiments RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, quantitative PCR analysis, protein isolation, SDS PAGE, western blotting, fluorescence and absorbance-based plate reader assays, etc.
• Mammalian tissue culture Grow, maintain, expand, and treat mammalian cell lines. Culture and treat mouse pancreatic islets.
• Management of laboratory activities and supplies Order, organize, and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies. Prepare common laboratory reagents. Make sure laboratory is clean and operational. Maintain the laboratory in a safe and clean condition.
• Laboratory record-keeping Prepare daily records of experiments and results. Maintain organized records of laboratory procedures and protocols.
• Additional duties assigned by the Principal Investigator This may include collaborations with internal and external colleagues and performing other tasks to maintain smooth operation of the laboratory.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level