UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Biochemistry

About the position

The Research Specialist I position at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) offers an opportunity to engage in significant research within the lab of Dr. Sahin at the Hollings Cancer Center. The role involves conducting laboratory molecular and cell biology procedures, contributing to research projects aimed at understanding drug resistance and developing novel anti-cancer agents. This position is designed for individuals eager to work in a multidisciplinary team and participate in research that may lead to publications.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory molecular and cell biology procedures, including animal handling (small rodents).
• Operate laboratory equipment and maintain laboratory supplies.
• Support the day-to-day functioning of the laboratory by engaging in both laboratory research and managerial activities.
• Perform mammalian tissue culture, including growing, maintaining, expanding, and treating mammalian cell lines.
• Develop, evaluate, and implement new or modified culture procedures.
• Perform mouse handling functions, including breeding and genotyping.
• Assist in routine in vivo experiments, such as xenograft models of cancer.
• Prepare daily records of experimental procedures and results, and maintain laboratory supplies.
• Extract DNA/RNA/Protein from mammalian cells and analyze them by PCR, biochemical assays, Northern Blot, and Western Blot.
• Perform other tasks requested by faculty to maintain smooth laboratory operations.

Requirements

• A high school diploma and two years of 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 Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or related subjects.
• Preferred Master's degree or previous research experience in advanced molecular and cell biology techniques and animal handling/breeding.
• Minimum 1 year of experience as part of a research team in an academic setting.
• 2 to 4 years of experience in molecular and cellular biology (PCR, cloning, western blot, mammalian cell culture, microscopy).
• Excellent organizational, written, and oral communication skills.
• Working experience in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.

Nice-to-haves

• Previous research experience in advanced molecular and cell biology techniques.
• Experience in animal management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $32,686 - $60,471 per year.
• Opportunity to contribute to exciting research and publications.
• Work in a multidisciplinary team environment.