Laboratory Research Specialist

Overview

The Malaria Research and Vaccine Development laboratory of Professor Stefan Kappe at the School of Medicine Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD), University of Maryland School of Medicine (Baltimore, MD) is seeking a highly motivated Laboratory Research Specialist to support mosquito colony maintenance, malaria parasite lifecycle propagation, and innovative vector-stage malaria research activities. The role involves maintaining mosquito colonies, supporting experimental infections, and developing in vitro sporozoite production systems to generate functional and infectious malaria sporozoites outside the mosquito.

• Maintain Anopheles mosquito colonies and insectary operations.
• Support malaria parasite life cycle maintenance for both human and rodent malaria parasites.
• Assist with mosquito feeding and infection experiments.
• Support ongoing efforts to optimize in vitro mosquito and parasite culture systems for sporozoite production.
• Assist in mosquito infection, parasite transmission, and sporozoite collection procedures.
• Contribute to development and optimization of scalable parasite production workflows relevant to malaria vaccine research.
• Prepare and maintain insectary supplies and equipment.

• Interest in insects, vector biology, or infectious disease research.
• Interest in translational research and vaccine manufacturing technologies.
• Prior laboratory insectary or field entomological experience.
• Experience handling mosquitoes or other insect colonies.
• Experience with animal research or microbiological techniques.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules when needed for mosquito maintenance.
• Knowledge of applicable requirements, regulations, and laws; skill in effective use of technology and systems.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to demonstrate, understand, apply, and adhere to UMB Core Values.

Education:

Bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field.

Experience:

Three (3) years of experience, including two (2) years in relevant research specialization.

Exempt Regular staff receive a comprehensive benefits package including a private leave package with over 4 weeks of vacation, 15 paid holidays, 3 personal leave days, unlimited accrual of sick time, comprehensive health insurance, professional learning and development programs, tuition remission for employees and dependents at any University System of Maryland school, and flexible work schedules and teleworking options.

$68,000 - $72,000, commensurate with education and experience.

UMB is an Equal Opportunity /Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy.