UNIV - Research Specialist II - Department of Biochemistry

Job Description Summary

The department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at MUSC has an opening for a motivated and collegial Research Specialist in the laboratory of Dr. Jennifer Stancill. The lab focuses on pancreatic beta-cells, which secrete insulin in response to an increase in blood sugar and are damaged or destroyed during the progression of diabetes. The lab works in vitro (mammalian cell culture), ex vivo (mouse and human tissues), and in vivo (mouse models).

Experimental techniques we use include qPCR, SDS PAGE, western blot, ELISA, plate reader assays, and fluorescence microscopy, among others. While experience in these systems and techniques is welcome, hands‑on training will be provided for all required tasks. More information about the Stancill lab can be found on the lab website:

The research specialist will work under general supervision of the PI to conduct laboratory experiments, maintain mouse colonies and cell lines, and organize laboratory supplies. The position requires a motivated, well‑organized individual with excellent communication skills.

Previous experience in mouse husbandry and handling and tissue culture are preferred but not required. Training will be provided if applicant has no prior experience in these techniques.

Must have the ability to think creatively and work independently as well as part of a team.

• 25% - Mouse husbandry, handling, and experimentation
  • Maintain mouse colonies (setting up breeding pairs, weaning, ear tagging, genotyping, etc.)
  • Assist in isolation of pancreatic islets from mice.
• 25% - Basic biochemical and molecular biology experiments
  • RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, quantitative PCR analysis, protein isolation, SDS PAGE, western blotting, fluorescence and absorbance‑based plate reader assays, etc.
• 20% - Mammalian tissue culture
  • Grow, maintain, expand, and treat mammalian cell lines.
  • Culture and treat mouse pancreatic islets.
• 15% - Management of laboratory activities and supplies
  • Order, organize, and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies.
  • Prepare common laboratory reagents.
  • Make sure laboratory is clean and operational.
  • Maintain the laboratory in a safe and clean condition.
• 10% - Laboratory record‑keeping
  • Prepare daily records of experiments and results.
  • Maintain organized records of laboratory procedures and protocols.
• 5% - Additional duties assigned by the Principal Investigator
  • This may include collaborations with internal and external colleagues and performing other tasks to maintain smooth operation of the laboratory.

A bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science and one year work experience directly related to the assigned research area.

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The following descriptions are applicable to this section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) 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.…