UNIV - Research Specialist - Department of Biochemistry

Position: UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Biochemistry

Job Summary

The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) invites applications for a Research Specialist I position in the laboratory of Dr. Zhang, who joined MUSC in November 2025. This position offers an immediate start and provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to cutting‑edge biomedical research in a dynamic and collaborative environment.

The Zhang Lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying genomic instability and developing therapeutic strategies to exploit these mechanisms for cancer treatment. Current research investigates how cells respond to chemotherapy and maintain genomic integrity, with a particular emphasis on topoisomerase‑targeting agents.

Preferred Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Hands‑on laboratory experience in molecular and cellular biology techniques, such as PCR, cloning, Western blotting, mammalian cell culture, and microscopy.
• Master’s degree or equivalent research experience.
• Strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a research team.

Job Duties Conduct Molecular and Cellular Biology Experiments (35%)

• Work collaboratively with faculty and lab members to design and perform experiments.
• Grow, maintain, expand, and treat mammalian cell lines.
• Perform molecular biology techniques such as PCR, cloning, and Western blotting.
• Conduct microscopy and other functional assays as needed.

Manage Laboratory Supplies (25%)

• Maintain an organized inventory of reagents and consumables.
• Monitor supply levels and coordinate timely orders.

Coordinate Purchasing for Research Operations (20%)

• Prepare and process purchase requests.
• Track orders and ensure efficient procurement of essential materials.

Operate and Maintain Laboratory Equipment (10%)

• Ensure equipment is calibrated, cleaned, and functioning properly.
• Assist with troubleshooting and preventive maintenance.

Support Overall Laboratory Operations (10%)

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by faculty to ensure smooth lab operations.
• Collaborate with internal and external research partners as needed.

Minimum Requirements

A high school diploma and two years work experience in a clinical or research setting; a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science may be substituted for the two years of required experience.

Physical Requirements

Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to climb, using step stool. (Infrequent) Ability to work in temperature extremes (32° F to 100°

F) when required due to assignments in cold rooms and/or foreign countries. (Infrequent) Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Continuous) Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both legs. (Frequent) Ability to reach in all directions, stretch, bend, while moving items/materials from both sitting and standing positions.

(Frequent) Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function/distinction. (Continuous) Ability to lift materials up to 20 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift and carry 4 liter waste material bottles a distance of 30 feet, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lift and carry 25-30 lbs. jugs of liquid a distance of 100 feet, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift file boxes, from floor level to counter tops, unassisted.

(Frequent) Ability to push/ Ability to lift 40 lbs. centrifuge rotors from floor level to height of 40 inches, then down 20 inches into centrifuge drum, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift 25 lbs. boxes, from floor level to maximum height of 72 inches, unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to push/pull file boxes from one location to another at floor level. (Frequent) Ability to maneuver heavy equipment on bench tops, 50 lbs.

or greater, unassisted. (Frequent)…