Research Specialist A

Research Specialist A

The Stevens Lab in the Department of Cancer Biology is seeking an enthusiastic candidate interested in gaining experience in protein engineering, cell biology, synthetic biology, and cell engineering. Under the direction of Dr. Adam Stevens, the specialist will apply cutting-edge approaches to study principles of cell adhesion and develop next generation cell and tissue therapies. The research specialist will be responsible for carrying out investigative procedures and operating scientific instruments.

In addition, the research specialist will collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data collected. Additional responsibilities of the position include contributing to the general function of the lab through the maintenance of common supplies and reagents.

The selected candidate will contribute to a team in the newly formed Stevens Lab by conducting a variety of experimental techniques, such as computational protein design, molecular cloning, cell culture (cell lines and primary cells), confocal microscopy, and flow cytometry. The candidate will also contribute to designing computational image analysis and deep learning pipelines to evaluate high-content images and predict custom-engineered tissue structures.

The successful candidate will receive detailed technical training and will execute cellular assays to collect, analyze and compile data in support of our research. This is an outstanding opportunity for a highly motivated candidate seeking direct mentorship and experience in cutting-edge biomedical research.

Job Responsibilities

• Drive a research project by performing various investigative procedures and operating a variety of instruments and other scientific equipment. Examples of equipment routinely used are thermal cyclers for gene amplification and cloning, microscopes for live cell functional studies, and flow cytometers and cell sorters for cell analysis and isolation.
• Collect, record, organize and verify the accuracy of data; perform calculations and prepare charts, graphs, and reports. Help in the general running of the lab, including receiving items, and maintaining lab organization.
• Become familiar with the scientific literature and participate in group meetings.
• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Willingness and ability to work independently, learn new methods, and be engaged as part of a research team.

Preferred Experience

• Prior research experience in a related field (e.g. molecular biology, computer science, biochemistry, cell biology, bioengineering, or chemical biology).
• Experience in the design and assembly of DNA constructs (modern molecular cloning techniques such Golden Gate or Gibson Assembly).
• Experience with the culture of mammalian cells (e.g. tumor cell lines, T cells).
• Experience in flow cytometry, cell sorting, or confocal microscopy
• Experience in Python/MATLAB, machine learning, or building image analysis pipelines,

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$44,500.00 - $50,000.00 Annual Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics), citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts :
  Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral…