Research Specialist A
The University of Pennsylvania, a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation, is the largest private employer in Philadelphia. This Ivy League institution consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the U.S. News & World Report survey and offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia.
About the Role
The Research Specialist A will work with patients’ clinical samples, processing them to cells, DNA, and/or RNA, evaluating nucleic acid quality and quantity, and biobanking this material according to existing SOPs. Responsibilities include managing samples using a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS), media preparation, maintaining chemical inventory, and database organization. The role also involves training as a flow cytometry technician and performing Real-Time qPCR testing. This position requires meticulous work in a Good Laboratory Practice-like environment, including thorough documentation of samples and procedures under compliance and regulations. Occasional work on holidays and weekends may be required.
Responsibilities
- Process and biobank a variety of human patient specimens (e.g., whole blood, bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid, peritoneal and pleural fluids) to obtain serum, cells, plasma, and supernatant.
- Perform nucleic acid purification from clinical and research samples received in TCSL.
- Quantify and biobank nucleic acids processed in TCSL.
- Perform Real-Time qPCR on cellular products and patient samples.
- Conduct Flow Cytometry and/or Real-Time qPCR testing using the BD LSR II Fortessa instrument.
- Additional duties as assigned to support the smooth functioning of the sample pipeline.
Requirements
- Bachelor of Science degree.
- 0 to 1 year of experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Benefits
- Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: Comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance. Flexible spending accounts for eligible health care and dependent care expenses.
- Tuition Assistance: Exceptional tuition benefits for employees, spouses, and dependent children at Penn and other institutions.
- Retirement Plans: Generous retirement savings options with pre-tax or Roth contributions, including Basic, Matching, and Supplemental plans with investment choices through TIAA and Vanguard.
- Time Away from Work: Substantial paid time off for vacations, personal affairs, illness, or family needs.
- Long-Term Care Insurance: Coverage for long-term care services at home, in the community, or in a nursing facility, with no underwriting requirements if applied for at hire.
- Wellness and Work-Life Resources: Programs and resources to support health, family, and work-life balance.
- Professional and Personal Development: Access to resources for advancing personal and professional growth.
- University Resources: Access to libraries, athletic facilities, arboretum, art galleries, museums, and cultural/recreational activities (many free or discounted for employees and families).
- Discounts and Special Services: Savings on arts, entertainment, transportation, mortgages, cellular plans, movie tickets, theme parks, and new cars from Ford and General Motors.
- Flexible Work Hours: Options for non-traditional work hours, locations, or job structures to promote work-life balance.
- Penn Home Ownership Services: Forgivable loans for eligible employees buying a home or residing in West Philadelphia (for closing costs or home improvements).
- Adoption Assistance: Reimbursement for qualified adoption expenses (e.g., travel, court fees) for up to two adoptions per household.
Pay
Salary offers range from $45,278.00 to $50,000.00 annually, based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education, as well as external market and internal peer data.
Department: Perelman School of Medicine
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania