Research Specialist II (Ophthalmology)

Johns Hopkins University•Indianapolis, IN

1d•$42,330 - $74,110•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Specialist II develops assays and protocols for PI approval and designs experimental approaches for laboratory projects. The role performs sophisticated assays, contributes to laboratory efforts and goals, troubleshoots problems, makes independent decisions, and trains or guides other laboratory personnel. The position supports research using human pluripotent stem cells and CRISPR genome editing to develop models of human retinal diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma; demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis; and Neurofibromatosis 1, with a focus on genetic mutations affecting glial cells. The laboratory also uses mouse models of neurodegenerative diseases for drug testing. The work involves substantial cell culture, particularly human pluripotent stem cell culture, and molecular biology. Under the supervision of the principal investigator and other laboratory personnel, the specialist maintains human pluripotent stem cells and differentiates them into human retinal ganglion cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia. The specialist also assists with molecular cloning, DNA and RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting. Some animal handling and tissue processing are required under the supervision of the PI or a senior scientist. The role also requires organization, laboratory data maintenance, and working with vendors to order supplies and reagents. The position is full time, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., at the School of Medicine campus. The starting salary range is $42,330–$74,110 annually, with a targeted salary of $56,800, commensurate with experience.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Biology, Chemistry, or a related field.
Two years of laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
Additional education may substitute for required experience, and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, subject to the JHU equivalency formula.
Good organizational skills.
Previous experience maintaining laboratory data.
Ability to work with vendors to order items and reagents for a research laboratory.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree with related graduate research.
Some relevant post-undergraduate work experience in cellular and molecular biology.
Cell culture experience, ideally with human stem cell culture.
Prior experience handling and working with animal models.

Responsibilities

Conduct assigned laboratory projects.
Interpret results using specialized knowledge, including reading controls and evaluating results.
Work independently and use scientific knowledge and laboratory experience to make judgments and decisions.
Teach and train learners and new technicians in the laboratory.
Guide and facilitate problem solving for entry-level laboratory members working on day-to-day problems with more challenging research assays.
Contribute scientifically to protocol development, efficiency, and productivity.
Collaborate in developing new techniques and instruments.
Apply published research methods to current experimental work by investigating published protocols and discussing them with the PI.
Contribute scientifically to preparing manuscripts and proposals.
Process analyzed data into figures for scientific publications.
Order equipment and supplies and interface with vendors.
Maintain human pluripotent stem cells and differentiate them into retinal ganglion cells, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes, and microglia.
Assist with molecular cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, and Western blotting.
Perform animal handling and tissue processing under the supervision of the PI or a senior scientist.
Maintain laboratory data and support organization of laboratory work.
Perform other duties as assigned.