UNIV - Research Specialist II - Department of Medicine: Division of Infectious Diseases

Medical University of South Carolina • Charleston, SC

7d • $46,206 - $78,540

About The Position

The Meissner Research Lab in the Division of Infectious Diseases and Department of Medicine at MUSC is seeking a highly motivated, detail-oriented Research Specialist II committed to excellence. The lab studies mechanisms of lambda interferon signaling through the lambda interferon receptor 1 (IFNLR1), with the aim of identifying ways to manipulate this pathway to treat viral infections.

Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and Staff Scientist, the Research Specialist II performs complex biological procedures and analyses in a basic science and translational laboratory. The role requires meticulous technique and the ability to optimize and troubleshoot protocols. The employee will help prepare experimental results for presentation and publication and may occasionally work weekends.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or another natural, life, or health care science.
• One year of work experience directly related to the assigned research area.
• Prior laboratory experience.
• Ability to work rotating shifts and overtime as required.
• Ability to learn and use new processes, tools, and equipment as required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with primary and established cell line culture techniques, including cell expansion, transfection, and characterization.
• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR/qRT-PCR, and molecular cloning.
• Experience with protein and cellular assays, including western blotting, flow cytometry, and fluorescent microscopy.
• Familiarity with analysis and interpretation of biological datasets, including proteomic and transcriptomic data.

Responsibilities

• Maintain, expand, and characterize mammalian primary cells and cell lines under sterile culture conditions.
• Perform cell-based assays, treatments, genetic manipulations, and other experimental procedures.
• Perform cellular and molecular biology techniques, including RNA/DNA isolation, DNA cloning, PCR/qRT-PCR, western blotting, flow cytometry, and fluorescent microscopy.
• Document experimental procedures and data accurately in an electronic notebook.
• Analyze data and perform statistical analyses using appropriate software, such as GraphPad.
• Participate in weekly laboratory meetings.
• Assist with preparation of presentations and publications.
• Support day-to-day laboratory operations, including inventory management, reagent selection and ordering, and equipment maintenance.

What This Job Offers

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