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Research Specialist, School of Nursing

University of Pennsylvania
Claire M. Fagin Hall, United States, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 21 Apr 2026
💰 $50,000/yr($44,500/yr$50,000/yr)

About the role

University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning. As an employer Penn has been ranked nationally on many occasions with the most recent award from Forbes who named Penn one of America’s Best Large Employers in 2023.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Posted Job Title

Research Specialist, School of Nursing

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist A

Job Description Summary

Our lab at the University of Pennsylvania is looking for a full-time Research Specialist to join us starting Summer 2026. Our lab focuses on studying the neurobiological mechanisms underlying addiction-like behaviors in animal models of substance use disorders. An emphasis is placed on translational studies aimed at identifying and developing novel therapeutic approaches to treating substance use disorders. Prior experience working with rodents is preferred as the foundation of our studies is the drug self-administration paradigm in rats. Experience with animal models of addiction, stereotaxic brain surgery, and/or behavioral pharmacology is a plus. Familiarity with cellular and molecular techniques including RT-PCT, immunohistochemistry, RNAscope and Western blotting is also desirable. This position is ideal for a post-baccalaureate looking to gain hands-on research experience in behavioral neuroscience before graduate or medical school. We are looking for a motivated, industrious individual who is excited about neuroscience research and working in a collaborative, inclusive environment.

Job Description

Job Responsibilities

  • Rodent drug self-administration experiments
  • In vivo fiber photometry
  • Immunohistochemistry, fluorescent in situ hybridization, and fluorescent microscopy maintaining lab organization
  • Cell type- and circuit-specific studies of the brain
  • Rodent husbandry and colony maintenance
  • Data analysis and presentation
  • Lab management (ordering lab supplies, etc)

Qualifications

Bachelor of Science and 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Nursing

Pay Range

$44,500.00 - $50,0

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Company

University of Pennsylvania

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