UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Biochemistry

MUSC’s Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology is seeking a motivated and collegial Research Specialist to join the laboratory of Dr. Jennifer Stancill. The lab investigates pancreatic beta-cells, which secrete insulin in response to elevated blood sugar and are damaged or destroyed during diabetes progression. Research spans in vitro (mammalian cell culture), ex vivo (mouse and human tissues), and in vivo (mouse models) systems. Core techniques include qPCR, SDS-PAGE, western blot, ELISA, plate reader assays, and fluorescence microscopy. While prior experience with these methods is welcome, hands-on training will be provided.

About the role

The research specialist will work under the general supervision of the Principal Investigator to conduct laboratory experiments, maintain mouse colonies and cell lines, and organize laboratory supplies. The position requires a well-organized, creative individual with excellent communication skills who can work both independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Basic biochemical and molecular biology experiments (30%)
  • RNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, quantitative PCR analysis
  • Protein isolation, SDS-PAGE, western blotting
  • Fluorescence and absorbance-based plate reader assays
• Mammalian tissue culture (20%)
  • Grow, maintain, expand, and treat mammalian cell lines
  • Culture and treat mouse pancreatic islets
• Mouse handling and experimentation (20%)
  • Assist in isolation of pancreatic islets from mice
• Management of laboratory activities and supplies (15%)
  • Order, organize, and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies
  • Prepare common laboratory reagents
  • Maintain laboratory cleanliness, safety, and operational readiness
• Laboratory record-keeping (10%)
  • Prepare daily records of experiments and results
  • Maintain organized records of laboratory procedures and protocols
• Additional duties (5%)
  • Collaborate with internal and external colleagues
  • Perform other tasks to ensure smooth laboratory operation as assigned by the Principal Investigator

Requirements

• A high school diploma and two years of work experience in a clinical or research setting; a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, biology, or another natural, life, or health-care science may substitute for the two years of experience
• Preferred: previous laboratory experience in biochemistry, molecular biology, or cellular biology
• Ability to think creatively and work both independently and as part of a team

Physical Requirements

• Frequent ability to perform job functions in upright, seated, and walking/mobile positions
• Frequent ability to bend, twist at the waist, and perform repetitive motions with hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders
• Continuous ability to use both hands/arms, both legs, and maintain gross motor functions with frequent fine motor movements
• Continuous ability to maintain 20/40 vision (corrected), color discrimination, olfactory sensory function, and hearing (alarms, conversations)
• Frequent ability to lift materials up to 20 lbs., carry 4-liter waste bottles 30 feet, lift file boxes to countertops, and push/pull file boxes at floor level
• Infrequent ability to lift and carry 25–30 lbs. jugs 100 feet, lift 40 lbs. centrifuge rotors to 40 inches, lift 25 lbs. boxes to 72 inches, and maneuver heavy equipment (50+ lbs.) on bench tops
• Infrequent ability to work in temperature extremes (32°F to 100°F), confined/cramped spaces, and climb using a step stool
• Continuous ability to work in a darkroom and be qualified physically for respirator use (initial and annual certification)
• Ability to work rotating shifts, overtime, and learn new processes, tools, and equipment as required

Pay

Hourly pay range: $37,200 – $59,500 annually.

Schedule

18 scheduled weekly hours.