We are seeking a Research Specialist to join the Kebschull Lab (https://www.kebschull-lab.org/), an exciting and fast-paced Molecular Neuroscience Laboratory in the Department of Biomedical Engineering. The laboratory is active in two research areas: 1) development of new viral and sequencing tools to map brain circuits and 2) understanding changes to neuronal circuits across evolution and disease. To do so the laboratory uses molecular biology and synthetic biology approaches.

The Research Specialist will conduct scientific research, and produce viral vectors and Illumina sequencing libraries. They will have a working understanding of the context and implications of the research in order to apply and interpret theoretical knowledge necessary to conduct research. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: experimental design, developing methodology, conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of biotechnological laboratory techniques using cell and molecular biology techniques (tissue culture; ultracentrifugation; DNA, RNA isolation; RT-PCR and westerns, sequencing library preparation, immunostaining).
• Follow established procedures and protocols, and utilize appropriate techniques to develop, perform and analyze experiments, which may include making protocol modification within the parameters set by investigator.
• Exercise independent judgment while participating in the planning of experiments, evaluation/interpretation of results, and organization of data.
• Help develop and carryout new techniques for various studies ongoing in the lab.
• May include some routine troubleshooting.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Possesses exceptional organizational skills.
• Possesses sound documentation skills.
• Ability to reliably and reproducibly carry out complex experimental protocols.
• Ability to work on multiple priorities effectively.
• Ability to prioritize conflicting demands.
• Ability to execute assigned project tasks within established schedule.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Ability to communicate effectively in speech and writing.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Must demonstrate critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills.
• Candidates should be motivated, highly organized, have good communication and time management skills, and work effectively in a team setting.

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry or related field.
• One year laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute forexperience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

• Strong molecular biology skills.
• A minimum of two years in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques is preferred.
• Previous experience with viral vectors, and tissue culture.
• Experience in coding languages such as Python, R, and MATLAB.

Classified Title: Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
Starting Salary Range: $16.92 - $29.61 HRLY ($56,250 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday through Friday
Exempt Status:Non-Exempt
Location:School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM BME Biomedical Imaging Science
Personnel area: School of Medicine