Research Specialists

Research Specialist position in electrophysiology and/or confocal microscopy available in the laboratory of Dr. Aromolaran, Ph.D., at The Nora Eccles Harrison Cardiovascular Research and Training Institute, University of Utah. The lab focuses on understanding metabolic disorders and their effects on ion channel location and function.

Learn more about the Aromolaran lab.

About the role

The department may hire at any of the following levels based on business need and budget.

Responsibilities

• Set up and conduct experiments according to established research protocols under the direction of scientists.
• Perform a variety of tasks contributing to tests and studies to support research project objectives.
• Prepare samples for analysis and perform laboratory tasks and procedures.
• Collect and analyze data, and test, validate, and document results.
• Summarize research findings to inform decisions.
• Assist in preparing research documentation, such as grants, regulatory submissions, manuscripts, reports, summaries, publications, and presentations.
• Remain knowledgeable in research methods, techniques, and developments in the field of specialty.

Requirements by level

• Research Specialist, I
  • Requires basic skill set and proficiency.
  • Conducts work assignments as directed with close supervision and little latitude for independent judgment.
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience or a master’s degree (or equivalency).
  • Expected pay range: $27,194 to $62,386.
• Research Specialist, II
  • Requires moderate skill set and proficiency in discipline.
  • Conducts work assignments of increasing complexity under moderate supervision with some latitude for independent judgment.
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree (or equivalency) + 4 years or a master’s degree (or equivalency) + 2 years of directly related work experience.
  • Expected pay range: $29,913 to $68,625.
• Research Specialist, III
  • Considered highly skilled and proficient in discipline.
  • Conducts complex, important work under minimal supervision with wide latitude for independent judgment.
  • Requires a bachelor’s degree (or equivalency) + 6 years or a master’s degree (or equivalency) + 4 years of directly related work experience.
  • Expected pay range: $36,196 to $83,036.

Equivalency statement: 1 year of higher education can substitute for 1 year of directly related work experience (e.g., bachelor’s degree = 4 years of experience).

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Physiology, Biomedical Engineering, or a related field.
• Training and experience in the following areas:
  • Electrophysiology: whole-cell patch clamp technique on cell lines and freshly isolated cardiomyocytes.
  • Confocal microscopy: experience with immunofluorescence on cardiomyocytes and heart tissue slices.
  • Myocyte isolation: Langendorff-perfused isolation of cardiomyocytes.
  • Animal handling: small animal care, maintenance, and minor procedures.
  • Cell culture: maintaining cell lines and transfection approaches.
  • Laboratory management: assisting in general lab management.
• Minimum of two years of practical lab experience.
• Ability to work independently and troubleshoot problems.

Pay

• Research Specialist I: $27,194 to $62,386
• Research Specialist II: $29,913 to $68,625
• Research Specialist III: $36,196 to $83,036

Schedule

Full-time position.