UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Pharmacology

Job Description Summary

Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, a Research Specialist I is needed to support immunofluorescence microscopy histology, glycomics and proteomics research for the analysis of human tissue and biofluid samples. Responsible for sample preparation for immunofluorescence microscopy slides, chemical derivatization of sialic acid sugars, and mass spectrometry analysis.

Entity

Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC - Univ)

Worker Type

Employee

Worker Sub-Type​

Research Grant

Cost Center

CC001032 COM PHARM Administration CC

Pay Rate Type

Hourly

Pay Grade

University-04

Pay Range

32,686.00 - 46,578.50 - 60,471.000

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Work Shift

Job Description

.

Job Description

Under the direct supervision of the Principal Investigator, a Research Specialist I is needed to support immunofluorescence microscopy histology, glycomics and proteomics research for the analysis of human tissue and biofluid samples. Responsible for sample preparation for immunofluorescence microscopy slides, chemical derivatization of sialic acid sugars, and mass spectrometry analysis.

Job Duties:

30% - Performs immunohistochemistry and fluorescent staining of tissues or biofluid spots on glass slides for immunofluorescence microscopy imaging. Include a chemical derivatization step targeting sialic acid glycoproteins.

25% - Performs preparation of human tissues for analysis by mass spectrometry. This includes dewaxing tissues, applying enzymes and chemical matrix using a solvent sprayer, loading samples for mass spectrometry detection, and staining tissue for histopathology.

20% - Performs data analysis of immunofluorescent slide images and mass spectrometry data using laboratory computer workstations and manufacturer provided software programs.

10% - Keeping the lab safe, clean and compliant by maintaining a neat workspace, wearing appropriate personal protective equipment, and helping with labeling and inspection of laboratory items and solutions.

10% - Maintain a detailed electronic notebook of experiments performed and location of where data is stored.

5% - Assist in ordering reagents and laboratory supplies.

MUSC Minimum Training and Experience 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.

Minimum qualifications: A bachelor's degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or molecular/cell biology.

Additional Knowledge, Skill and Ability Experience in one or more of the following desired: Proficiency in Microsoft Office software tools like Word, Excel and PowerPoint, image and data analysis software, and biostatistics 

Additional Knowledge, Skill and Ability Preferred: The ideal candidate will have a college degree in biochemistry, chemistry, or molecular/cell biology and 6 months of relevant experience.

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 section: Continuous - 6-8 hours per shift; Frequent - 2-6 hours per shift; Infrequent - 0-2 hours per shift) Ability to perform job functions in an upright position. (Frequent) Ability to perform job functions in a seated position. (Continuous) Ability to perform job functions while walking/mobile. (Frequent) Ability to climb, using step stool. (Infrequent) Ability to work in temperature extremes (32° F to 100° F) when required due to assignments in cold rooms and/or foreign countries. (Infrequent) Ability to work in confined/cramped spaces. (Continuous) Ability to bend at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to twist at the waist. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both hands/arms. (Continuous) Ability to perform repetitive motions with hands/wrists/elbows and shoulders. (Frequent) Ability to fully use both legs. (Frequent) Ability to reach in all directions, stretch, bend, while moving items/materials from both sitting and standing positions. (Frequent) Ability to maintain good olfactory sensory function/distinction. (Continuous) Ability to lift materials up to 20 lbs., unassisted. (Infrequent) Ability to lift and carry 4 liter waste material bottles a distance of 30 feet, unassisted. (Frequent) Ability to lift and carry 25-30 lbs. jugs of liquid a