Sr. Research Specialist

The Senior Research Specialist will work in a research laboratory that studies Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Studies address the role of mitochondrial dysfunction, cigarette smoke, oxidative stress on the retina and retinal pigmented epithelium in mouse models, tissue culture, and human histopathologic tissue. The candidate must be capable of exercising independent judgment while participating in the planning of experiments and evaluating and interpreting results. Uses scientific knowledge and lab experience to make judgments and decisions.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Primary role will be to manage the mouse smoking chamber. Must be able to manage mice in a satellite facility and function as an animal facility specialist (all aspects of animal husbandry, ensure mice are fed, watered, and in a clean environment, suggest preventative and maintenance health plans when needed, identify animal health concerns).
• Manage the mouse colony that includes breeding genetically modified mice.
• Participate in mouse experiments and function as a veterinarian technician (follow approved protocols, maintain daily records including smoking log of cigarettes used, collect samples for analysis, make sure treatments are followed, order supples using JHU SAP system, daily report to supervisor and team)
• Will provide training to other individuals who may be assigned to the laboratory on a regular or temporary basis.
• May be assigned an independent project and participate in the creation of manuscripts.
• Work collaboratively or independently using techniques that include molecular biology assays (single cell RNA-sequencing, single cell ATAC-sequencing, proteomics, bioinformatic analysis of omics assays, real-time PCR especially for genotyping mice, RNA sequencing, Western blot analysis, ELISA, immunohistochemistry) and willingness to learn these techniques. Scientifically, special interest in mitochondrial microRNAs, non-coding RNAs, and stress granules as it relates to immunity, aging, and AMD.
• Develop protocols for PI approval, and design experimental approaches to research projects.
• May train and advise students and assist them in problem-solving and with more challenging research assays.
• Collaborate in development of new techniques and instruments.
• Responsible for laboratory inventory and ordering of supplies.
• Use universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers from biohazardous materials. Comply with biohazard/radiation safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents and/or radiation sources in the workplace.
• Carry out duties and responsibilities independently.
• Make decisions and establish work priorities with minimal input from supervisor. Routine communication with laboratory colleagues and with supervisor. Will communicate with external departments such as Radiation Safety, Health, Safety and Environment, and with external vendors.

• Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry or related field
• Four years experience in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques
• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula

• PhD or the equivalent in cell biology, biochemistry or molecular biology. ALAT certified preferred
• Must be able and willing to work with laboratory mice and rats. Must be familiar with tissue culture or sterile technique.
• Must be familiar with standard computer software including Word, Excel and Photoshop.

Classified Title: Sr. Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/04/MC
Starting Salary Range: $48,000 - $84,100 Annually (Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
Exempt Status:Exempt
Location:School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Oph Retina Service
Personnel area: School of Medicine