Laboratory Research Specialist

2 weeks ago


Worcester, Massachusetts, United States InsideHigherEd Full time

Position Overview:

ROLE SUMMARY:

Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI) or designated personnel, the Laboratory Research Specialist plays a crucial role in supporting laboratory operations. This position involves conducting research experiments as outlined by the PI.

This is an open-level position (with four distinct tiers of Laboratory Research Specialist) - candidates will be appointed to the level that aligns with their qualifications and experience.

The Korostelev lab at the RNA Therapeutics Institute, UMass Chan Medical School, is in search of a driven Laboratory Research Specialist. Proficiency in molecular biology and biochemistry is advantageous. Key responsibilities include:

1. Isolation and purification of recombinant proteins and nucleic acids from bacterial cultures and in vitro systems.

2. Culturing mammalian cells: nucleic-acid transfection, protein synthesis, and molecular biology assays.

3. Overseeing laboratory maintenance, including inventory management and cell line upkeep.

Our research focuses on the regulation of gene expression, particularly in (a) ribosome/translation regulation in neurons and neurodegenerative disorders, and (b) the development of RNA-based therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and conditions caused by nonsense mutations, such as cystic fibrosis. We employ a variety of methodologies, including cellular biology, structural biology, and biochemistry.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Research Specialist I:

  • Conduct laboratory experiments and may oversee a specific research project.
  • Utilize relevant software for experiments and equipment.
  • Analyze data, draw conclusions, and determine subsequent steps under the guidance of the PI or designee.
  • Maintain precise records and may modify protocols with PI approval.
  • Review literature, publications, and grants pertinent to assigned projects.
  • Document results following established laboratory, sponsor, and university protocols.
  • Assist in data analysis and mathematical computations.
  • Keep a detailed laboratory notebook in accordance with lab practices.
  • Present findings during lab/group meetings.
  • Monitor laboratory supply levels and place orders as necessary.
  • Prepare and label buffers, media, and solutions.
  • Adhere to all safety regulations and infection control standards.
  • Complete training on IACUC, IRB, EHS, and radiation safety protocols.
  • Comply with all applicable state, federal, university, and sponsor policies and agreements.
  • Assist in identifying challenges and proposing solutions.
  • Support the drafting of standard operating procedures in compliance with EHS regulations specific to the lab.
  • Perform additional duties as required.

Laboratory Research Specialist II:

Responsibilities as outlined above, plus:

  • May assist in training new laboratory personnel.
  • Support the drafting of standard operating procedures in compliance with EHS regulations specific to the lab.
  • May assist in drafting manuscript sections.

Laboratory Research Specialist III:

Responsibilities as outlined above, plus:

  • Conduct complex laboratory experiments and may oversee one or more independent research projects.
  • Perform in-depth data analysis and mathematical computations.
  • Compile and analyze data, presenting it in a format suitable for publication as per PI specifications.
  • May manage laboratory supply levels and place orders as needed; negotiate with suppliers to optimize resources.
  • Monitor laboratory equipment service contracts and maintenance.
  • May oversee general laboratory operations, including personnel, procedures, and projects.
  • May create new protocols or modify existing ones, as necessary, with PI approval.
  • Prioritize and execute multiple tasks simultaneously with attention to detail.
  • Perform duties and experiments independently.
  • Provide training for new laboratory personnel.
  • May monitor laboratory expenditures in accordance with budget guidelines provided by the PI or designee.
  • May assist with budget and operational aspects of grant and contract funding.

Laboratory Research Specialist IV:

Responsibilities as outlined above, plus:

  • This role will significantly contribute to the management of the research program and will be involved in various aspects of research projects and laboratory maintenance activities.
  • Independently design and execute multiple complex laboratory experiments.
  • Interpret data, draw conclusions, and determine next steps with a high degree of independence.
  • Manage laboratory supply levels and place orders as needed.
  • Oversee laboratory equipment service contracts and coordinate maintenance.
  • Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and infection control standards.
  • Identify and document standard operating procedures in compliance with EHS regulations specific to the lab.
  • Train on IACUC, EHS, and radiation safety protocols.
  • Manage daily laboratory operations, including personnel, procedures, and projects.
  • Identify challenges, propose solutions, and implement appropriate resolutions.
  • Develop and implement new protocols or modify existing ones, as necessary, with PI approval.
  • Mentor and train laboratory personnel on proper laboratory conduct and techniques.
  • Manage laboratory expenditures in accordance with budget guidelines provided by the PI or designee.
  • Assist with budget and operational aspects of grant and contract proposals.
  • Negotiate with vendors to optimize available resources.
  • Contribute independently to writing sections for manuscripts and grants.
  • Direct the activities of research support staff.
  • Perform additional duties as required.

Qualifications:

Laboratory Research Specialist I:

  • Bachelor's degree in Biological or Natural Science, or equivalent experience.
  • Basic understanding of laboratory safety and protocols.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office products.
  • Ability to analyze data in a quantitative and objective manner.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

Laboratory Research Specialist II:

  • Requirements noted for Specialist I plus:
  • 18 months of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 0 years with a related Master's Degree.

Laboratory Research Specialist III:

  • Requirements noted for Specialist I plus:
  • 3+ years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 1 year relevant research experience with a related Master's Degree.

Laboratory Research Specialist IV:

  • Requirements noted for Specialist I plus:
  • 5+ years of relevant research experience with a Bachelor's Degree in Biological or Natural Science or 3+ years relevant research experience with a related Master's degree.


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