UNIV - Research Specialist II - Department of Biochemistry

Research Specialist II - Department of Biochemistry

The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) invites applications for a Research Specialist II position in the laboratory of Dr. Huimin Zhang, who joined MUSC as an Assistant Professor in November 2025. This position is available immediately and offers an exciting opportunity to participate in cutting-edge cancer and genome stability research within a highly collaborative academic environment.

The Zhang Laboratory is dedicated to understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive genomic instability in cancer and to identifying therapeutic vulnerabilities that can be leveraged to improve cancer treatment. Current research focuses on DNA damage response and repair pathways, with particular emphasis on how cells respond to chemotherapy-induced DNA damage and maintain genome integrity. Ongoing projects investigate the mechanisms of action and cellular responses to topoisomerase-targeting agents, with the goal of developing more effective and selective cancer therapies.

Location:

Charleston, South Carolina

Laboratory:
Clinical & Research Support Services

Employment Type:

Full Time

Entity:
University (UNIV)

Job Purpose:

The Research Specialist will work closely with the principal investigator and other laboratory members to conduct molecular and cellular biology experiments, perform mammalian cell culture, analyze and interpret experimental data, and assist in the preparation of research reports and presentations. The successful candidate will contribute to ongoing research projects and support the overall operation of the laboratory in a collaborative team environment.

Additional Knowledge, skill, ability preferred:

• Required to have a minimum Bachelor's degree in Biology or related subjects.
• 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.
• The position will remain open until filled.

Guideline and Supervision:
Must be able to work with little or no supervision.

Job Duties:

• Conduct Molecular and Cellular Biology Research (30%)
• Perform Mammalian Cell Culture and Experimental Procedures (30%)
• Coordinate Research Activities and Laboratory Resources (20%)
• Operate and Maintain Laboratory Equipment (10%)
• Support Overall Laboratory Operations (10%)

Minimum Requirements:

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.

Physical Requirements:

(

Note:

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. (Infrequent) Ability to lift file boxes, from…