Research Specialist D

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Posted Job Title
Research Specialist D
Job Profile Title
Research Specialist D
Job Description Summary
The Research Specialist D will support translational HIV research focused on HIV persistence and cure strategies by conducting molecular virology, sequencing, cloning, cell culture, and biospecimen-based experiments. The position also supports day-to-day study and laboratory operations, regulatory compliance, data management, trainee supervision, and scientific collaboration and dissemination.
Job Description
The Infectious Diseases Division within the Department of Medicine is seeking a full time Research Specialist D to work as part of Dr. Katharine Bar's translational HIV research lab, with a focus on understanding how HIV persists through antiretroviral therapy and how we can improve HIV cure strategies. The candidate will process human and animal biospecimens, perform HIV sequencing, cloning, and phenotypic testing, requiring both molecular virology and tissue culture skills. Under the supervision of the Principal Investigator, the Research Specialist will also be responsible for various day-to-day study operations including maintaining study databases, compliance with all IRB and regulatory documentation, and assisting with the preparation of materials to disseminate study results as needed. Experienced candidates will have the opportunity to work closely with and provide supervision of graduate and undergraduate students based on experience and interest. The Research Specialist should also be able to work closely with external partners, such as collaborating scientists and laboratories.
DUTIES:
· Design, perform, and analyze molecular virology experiments, including HIV-1 env and full-length virus cloning, virus isolate generation, virus replication and entry experiments, sequencing, and infectivity assays.
· Perform molecular techniques including PCR, DNA isolation from bacteria and viruses, restriction enzyme digestion, gel electrophoresis, DNA amplification by the polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing, and assay development.
· Perform cell culture-based assays to assess virus phenotype.
· Process human and animal biospecimens, including blood and tissues, and organize specimens in a laboratory inventory management system.
· Perform virus sequencing and sequence analysis in collaboration with bioinformaticians; manage sequence and experimental data.
· Analyze and synthesize experimental results, generate figures, and communicate and present results at internal and external meetings.
· Draft figures and contribute to manuscript and grant development.
· Maintain a daily laboratory notebook and attend research team meetings.
· Perform general laboratory duties, including reagent preparation, ordering supplies, and basic laboratory cleaning and maintenance.
· Maintain regulatory compliance and IRB documentation.
· Manage and oversee the work of students and research assistants, including graduate and post-doctoral students.
· Maintain relationships and collaborate with external partners and community organizations.
CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING
Qualifications
Master of Science and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
PhD preferred.
Experience with molecular biology and sequencing is required.
Experience working with viruses in cell culture strongly preferred.
Experience processing biospecimens, including blood and tissues is preferred.
Prior experience working with viruses and BSL II agents is preferred. HIV research experience required.
Applicants with prior publications and presentations in biomedical science preferred.
Strong computer skills are essential.
Candidates must be detail-oriented with excellent communication and interpersonal skills including when working closely students; ability to multi-task; and flexibility to shift focus between multiple projects as needed
Job Location - City, State
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Department / School
Perelman School of Medicine
Pay Range