Research Specialist (Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences)

The Department of Neurobiology is seeking a Research Specialist to perform a range of assays and experiments specific to an area of research, requiring a good understanding of the work of the laboratory. The Research Specialist will make contributions to various aspects of research efforts. The Research Speialist will perform routine troubleshooting and helps with training and orientation of others working in the laboratory.

The Laboratory of Genetic Neurobiology focuses on the pathogenic mechanisms of neurodegenerative and psychiatric disorders. Current projects include development of cell and animal models to explore the schizophrenia risk gene CUL1 and the triplet repeat expansion disorder Huntington’s disease like-2. The Research Specialist will assist in all aspects of lab management, and will use molecular, biochemical, and neuroanatomical techniques to study multiple mouse and cell lines, including human iPSCs. The Laboratory is a part of the Division of Neurobiology, a thriving group of labs share space, equipment, and common scientific interests in a new state-of the-art laboratory in the 1729 Building.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan and run experiments after discussion with investigators. Work may include making protocol modifications within the parameters set by investigator.
• Utilize specialized knowledge to interpret results, e.g. read controls, and evaluate results.
• Use scientific knowledge and lab experience to evaluate whether component parts of experiments are working as expected.
• Train, orient learners and new staff in the laboratory.
• Assist in development of new techniques and instruments.
• Become familiar with published research methods related to current experimental work by investigating published protocols and discussing them with more senior laboratory staff and or faculty investigators.
• Process analyzed data into figures for scientific publications.
• May order equipment and supplies, and interface with vendors.
• May facilitate problem solving for entry level lab members with research assays.
• May participate in protocol development, efficiency, and productivity.
• May contribute to writing manuscripts and grants by writing methodology sections.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.

• One year 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/ graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Technical Skills & Expected Level of Proficiency

• Data Management and Analysis Awareness
• Experimental Design and Execution Awareness
• Literature Review Awareness
• Operations Management Awareness
• Protocol Development and Optimization Awareness
• Scientific Writing Awareness

Classified Title: Research Specialist    
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA  
Starting Salary Range: $17.12 - $29.90 HRLY ($45,000 targeted; Commensurate w/exp) 
Employee group: Full Time 
Schedule: Mon to Fri, 8:30 am to 5 pm 
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt 
Location: School of Medicine Campus  
Department name: SOM Psy Neurobiology  
Personnel area: School of Medicine