UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Neurosciences

Job Description Summary

The Li Lab in the Department of Neuroscience at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist I to join a dynamic and growing neuroscience research program. This position offers an exceptional opportunity to gain comprehensive training in molecular biology, genetics, microscopy, image analysis, and animal research while contributing to cutting-edge discoveries in nervous system development and function.

The Li Lab investigates how neurons communicate with glial cells to shape brain development, plasticity, and function. Our research focuses on oligodendrocytes, the myelin-forming cells of the central nervous system, and their interactions with neurons. We combine molecular genetics, CRISPR-based approaches, advanced microscopy, and in vivo imaging in zebrafish to study these questions at cellular and molecular resolution.

As a relatively new and rapidly growing laboratory, this position provides a unique opportunity to participate in all aspects of research, from experimental design and data collection to analysis and laboratory operations. The ideal candidate will be intellectually curious, eager to learn, highly organized, and enthusiastic about contributing to a collaborative research environment. The position is particularly well suited for individuals seeking substantial research experience and professional development through sustained participation in an active research program. Successful candidates will be expected to develop increasing levels of independence in experimental execution, troubleshooting, data analysis, and project ownership.

To learn more about the lab, please visit: https://jiaxinglilab.org/

Entity

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type​

Research Grant

Cost Center

CC000984 COM NEURO RES Operations CC

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

University-GEN06

Pay Range

37,200.00 - 48,300.00 - 59,500.000

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Work Shift

Job Description

Job Duties

30% – Research Projects and Experimental Support

• Conduct and support neuroscience research projects under the supervision of the principal investigator.
• Assist with experimental planning, data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Contribute to the development and optimization of new experimental approaches.

20% – Zebrafish Husbandry and Animal Research

• Maintain and expand zebrafish colonies.
• Perform breeding, embryo collection, genotyping, transgenesis, and CRISPR-based experiments.
• Assist with animal care and management of the zebrafish facility.

20% – Molecular and Cellular Biology

• Perform molecular biology techniques including PCR, cloning, DNA/RNA isolation, plasmid preparation, CRISPR/Cas9 tool development, and immunohistochemistry.
• Assist with microscopy, image analysis, and quantitative data processing.
• Prepare reagents, maintain laboratory stocks, and support ongoing experiments.

15% – Laboratory Operations

• Assist with ordering, inventory management, equipment maintenance, and general laboratory organization.
• Help maintain a productive, collaborative, and safe research environment.

10% – Scientific Communication and Professional Development

• Participate in laboratory meetings, journal clubs, and scientific discussions.
• Assist with preparation of figures, manuscripts, presentations, and grant-related materials.
• Present research findings within the laboratory and at institutional events as appropriate.

5% – Additional Duties

• Perform other research-related duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior undergraduate research experience.
• Experience with molecular biology, microscopy, image analysis, animal research, or computational analysis.
• Demonstrated curiosity, problem-solving ability, and enthusiasm for scientific research.
• Interest in developing increasing levels of experimental independence and project ownership.
• Prior zebrafish experience is not required; training will be provided.

 

Additional Job Description

Minimum Requirements: A high school diploma and two years work experience in a clinical or research setting; a bachelor's degree in chemistry, biology, or other natural, life or health care science may be substituted for the two years of required experience.

Physical Requirements: (Note: The following descriptions are applicable to this