Job Description

We are seeking a Research Specialist in the department of Otolaryngology. The Research Specialist performs a range of assays and experiments specific to an area of research, requiring a good understanding of the work of the laboratory. Makes contributions to various aspects of research efforts. Performs routine troubleshooting and helps with training and orientation of others working in the laboratory.

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.

In addition to the duties described above

• Collaborates with other lab members and receives constructive guidance.
• Participates in laboratory meetings, including data presentation and critique, and providing updates on protocol implementation status.
• Assist in conducting experiments related to: Molecular biology (PCR, genotyping), sterile cell culture-related work (cochlear tissue dissection, plating, maintenance) and preparing tissue samples for immunohistochemistry, images acquisition of tissue samples using a confocal microscope and mage analysis using Nis Element software, Image J or Imaris.
• Prepares solutions and reagents following standard laboratory formulas and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in cell culture-related techniques, immunohistochemistry, auditory neuroscience, and handling rodents preferred.

Technical Qualifications & Specialized Certifications

• Tissue microdissection, cell culture, and tissue staining using written laboratory protocols.

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

The core technical skills listed are most essential; additional technical skills may be required based on specific division or department needs.

Classified Title: Research Specialist
Job Posting Title (Working Title): Research Specialist (Otolaryngology)
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
Starting Salary Range: $17.11 - $29.90 HRLY ($18.55/hour targeted; Commensurate w/exp.)
Employee group: Part-time
Schedule: M-F, 8:00am - 4:30pm
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Oto Otolaryngology Research
Personnel area: School of Medicine