Sr. Research Specialist

The Department of Radiation Oncology is seeking a proficient Sr. Research Specialist with a degree and experience in molecular biology, omics technologies and computational science. A sophisticated understanding of clinical and basic laboratory techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from experience. Designs, experiments and studies, analyzes data, and contributes to manuscript. Works independently and manages daily research projects. Will contribute to departmental/divisional/study-related meetings and provides training to other individuals who may be assigned to the laboratory on a regular or temporary basis. The senior research specialist will assist the principal investigator in the development and coordination of specific research projects, experimentation, data collection and analysis, and organization of the laboratory.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Performs research lab tests and experiments.
• Follows established procedures and protocols, utilize appropriate technique to design and perform laboratory tests and/or experiments which may include routine
• Genomic and epigenomic data generation and Next Generation Sequencing data analysis, and support of sponsored projects as required.
• Performs data entry and analysis.
• Interacts with study sponsors, Molecular Radiation Sciences investigators, and Lab staff and faculty to ensure timely and accurate results. Troubleshoots instruments and assays.
• Participates in planning experiments and evaluating/interpreting test results utilizing detailed knowledge of research laboratory procedures and practices. Selects, develops, performs and evaluates research methods; operates appropriate equipment.
• Reports and records outcomes/results of all tests.
• Exchanges routine information in an appropriate manner requiring good oral and written communication. Regular interaction with students, vendors, post-doctoral fellows, faculty members, and other fellows, that may include training.
• Monitors biohazard/radiation safety standards and proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents and/or radiation sources in the workplace.
• Is 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. Monitors inventory levels and proper storage of materials and supplies in accordance with established policies and procedures.
• May be responsible for microscopy equipment maintenance, operation and training of other users.

Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Uses various software applications, such as spreadsheets, relational databases, electronic mail, World Wide Web, statistical packages, and graphics packages to assemble, manipulate and/or format data and/or test reports, with solid background in basic biostatistics. Experience with Epic Beaker other laboratory information system desirable. Knowledge of R Studio, Python or similar next generation sequencing data visualization and analysis tools required.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee may remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing). 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 is 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 radiation protocols.
• 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. May be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds with proper training, or precautions/lifting aides (example: supply boxes or Formalin cubes). In some areas workspace is limited.
• Staff may be required to complete annual competency review, and must ensure compliance with Johns Hopkins Policy, Laboratory Policy & Procedure, Health, Safety & Environment regulations, and all applicable privacy & confidentiality laws/practices.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
• Four year's experience in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques.
• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Classified Title: Sr. Research Specialist
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/04/MC
Starting Salary Range: $48,000 - $84,100 Annually (Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: M-F, 8:30am-5pm
Exempt Status:Exempt
Location:School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Rad Onc Radiobiology
Personnel area: School of Medicine