Research Specialist

at  Johns Hopkins University

The Pathology Department is seeking a proficient Research Specialist with a firm understanding of techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from some professional experience. Under minimal supervision, performs clinical and/or research laboratory experiments by following established procedures and protocols. Participates in the design of experiments and analyzes data. Works independently and manages daily research projects. The research specialist will assist the principal investigator in the development and coordination of projects, experimentation, data collection/maintenance, and organization of the laboratory. Runs lab tests and completes measurements as assigned. Identifies and resolves problems and uses analytical and decision-making skills to implement assigned projects.

EQUIPMENT, MACHINE, OR TOOL REQUIREMENTS

• Computer and Laboratory equipment maintaining and operation lab such as: incubators, centrifuges, biological safety cabinets, spectrophotometers, freezers, Gene Xpert, etc.

SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Have strong communication skills.
• Uses various software applications, such as spreadsheets, relational databases, statistical packages, and graphics packages to assemble, manipulate and/or format data and/or test reports.
• Knowledge of good lab practices required. Individual must be able to work independently, under minimal supervision with strong decision-making skills and good judgment.

SPECIFIC PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) up to 70% of the time.
• Occasionally required to traverse throughout the laboratory or to retrieve equipment, supplies, or specimens from other locations on campus.
• The employee is required to operate computer keyboard, laboratory instruments, and small laboratory tools such as pipettes, cutting instruments, glass tubes, dishes, and/or slides.
• Constantly repositions self to perform duties at laboratory workstations, gathering specimens, and loading equipment.
• Prolonged vision requirements including viewing computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results.
• Visual acuity is required to distinguish fine gradation of color or structure and closely examine specimens (including via a microscope).

Laboratory Environment

• Exposure to toxins and infectious agents exist, but potential for personal injury or harm is minimized if established safety and health precautions are followed.
• Must refer to and are expected to comply with procedure manuals, follow proper laboratory protocols and safety policy/procedures, and be familiar with material data safety sheets in assigned work areas.
• Able to read and understand all Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) guidelines applicable to assigned work area.
• Working in laboratory where there may be discomforts due to odors, noise, temperature fluctuations, and working around lab equipment.
• Research areas may include animal, human, human products, DNA, and other bio-hazardous materials.
• Use of personal protective equipment may be advised or required.
• May transport equipment and supplies usually less than 40 pounds from one area to another (in the laboratory or on campus (specify). May be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with proper training, or precautions/lifting aides (example: supply boxes).
• In some areas workspace is limited.
• Staff may be required to complete annual competency review, and must insure compliance with Johns Hopkins Policy, Laboratory Policy & Procedure, Health, Safety & Environment regulations, and all applicable privacy & confidentiality laws/practices. Rotating on-call, weekend, or pager duties are required.
• Many department laboratories operate 24/7 with schedules on day, evening, or night shift. Rotating schedules which may include weekend work and holiday assignment. (Overtime possible when authorized/needed to meet business and patient needs). In the event of unexpected university closings including inclement weather or declared emergency, the employee in this position is required to report to work and/or remain at work.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, or related field required.
• Minimum 1 year experience in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques.
• Master’s degree courses, with related graduate research and laboratory experience, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Course work in related areas like microbiology.
• Master’s Degree preferred.
  Classified Title: Research Specialist
  Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MA
  Starting Salary Range: $16.92 - $29.61 HRLY ($45,900 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
  Employee group: Full Time
  Schedule: M-F, 8:30am-5:00pm
  Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
  Location: School of Medicine Campus
  Department name: SOM Pat Pathology Medical Microbiology
  Personnel area: School of Medicine

• Performs clinical and/or research lab tests and experiments
• . Has experience with mycobacteria cultivation and susceptibility testing techniques including broth microdilution, and disk diffusion.
• Also has experience with monitoring growth curves, determination of viable counts, and the use of various staining techniques for microscopic examination of samples. Plans and runs set of experiments after discussion with investigator.
• Follows established procedures and protocols, utilize appropriate technique to develop, perform and analyze laboratory tests and/or experiments which may include making protocol modification within the parameters set by investigator.
• Record outcomes/results of all experiments by writing.
• Report experimental procedures, results, and problems to PI through planned communication verbal and written/reports and logs.
• Maintain database and organize specimens and resources.
• Exchange routine information in an appropriate manner. Regular interaction with students, vendors, post-doctoral fellows, and faculty members.
• Train students, staff members, and postdoctoral fellows with established SOPs for sample preparation and instrument operation.
• Assist the principal investigator to coordinate the responsibilities for different projects and manage the laboratory operation.
• Interfaces with outside contacts, including presenting at meetings, leading multi-institution work groups, representing Johns Hopkins among research colleagues.
• Responsible for routine operational activities such as: ordering supplies and materials, reviewing inventory, maintaining up to date records of tests, etc. Preventative maintenance of equipment and laboratory operation procedures.
• Perform miscellaneous related duties as assigned.