Research Specialist

The Pathology Department is seeking a Research Specialist with a degree and experience in medical technology/clinical laboratory science, a firm understanding of clinical laboratory techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from some professional experience. Under minimal supervision, The Research Specialist performs clinical and/or research laboratory experiments by following established procedures and protocols. They will participate in the design of experiments and analyzes data and work independently and manage 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. This position runs lab tests and completes measurements as assigned. They will Identify and resolve problems and use analytical and decision-making skills to implement assigned projects.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• 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.
• Interfaces with outside contacts/collaborators and multi-institution work groups, representing Johns Hopkins among research colleagues.
• Assist the principal investigator to coordinate the responsibilities for different projects and manage the laboratory operation.
• Train students, staff members, and postdoctoral fellows with established SOPs for sample preparation and instrument operation.
• Exchange routine information in an appropriate manner. Regular interaction with students, vendors, post-doctoral fellows, and faculty members.
• Maintain database and organize specimens and resources.
• Report experimental procedures, results, and problems to PI through planned communication verbal and written/reports and logs.
• Follows established procedures and protocols, utilize appropriate technique to develop, perform and analyze laboratory tests and/or experiments which may include which may include routine Clinical Chemistry Reference Lab clinical testing, clinical trials and clinical studies testing, and support of sponsored projects as required. Interacts with study sponsors, investigators, and Clinical Chemistry Reference Lab staff and faculty to ensure timely and accurate test results. Troubleshoots instruments and assays.
• Record outcomes/results of all experiments by writing.
• Performs clinical and/or research lab tests and experiments. Plans and runs set of experiments after discussion with investigator.

Equipment, Machine, or Tool Requirements

• Computer and Laboratory equipment maintenance and operation including, automated clinical laboratory instrumentation (clinical chemistry and immunoassay), microplate reader/washer centrifuges, freezers, etc.

Special Knowledge, Skills & 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.
• Experience with Epic Beaker or other laboratory information system desirable.
• Knowledge of good lab practices required.
• Individual must be able to work independently, under minimal supervision with strong decision-making skills and good judgment.

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 i