Research Specialist B

Trustees of University of Pennsylvania; Kennett Square (Chester County); On-site; GBP 38,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Tuition benefits

Retirement plans

Paid time off

Job summary

The University of Pennsylvania in Kennett Square, PA, is seeking a Research Specialist B to perform diagnostic testing on avian and mammalian samples, including real-time PCR and sequencing. The role supports serological testing as needed and requires strong communication and computer skills.

Responsibilities include sample prep, QA tasks, LIMS entries, and participating in trainings. This is a grant-funded position within the School of Veterinary Medicine.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field and 1–2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience performing PCR testing is preferred.
• Strong communication and computer skills are necessary.

Responsibilities

• Perform real-time PCR and sequencing assays for various avian and mammalian pathogens.
• Accession, result, and finalize cases in the computer-based laboratory information management system.
• Prepare samples for diagnostic testing.
• Perform QA tasks for molecular testing and virus isolation.
• Perform molecular testing on samples.
• Perform basic housekeeping duties in BSL2+ facility.
• Participate in required trainings (onsite and offsite) and proficiency testing.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Real-time PCR testing

Strong communication

Computer skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Biology or related field

Tools

Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS)

Job description

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 B

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist B

Job Description Summary

This position involves the performance of diagnostic testing on avian and mammalian samples including molecular assays (PCR) and virus isolation. This position also assists with serological testing when needed. Strong communication and computer skills are necessary. The laboratory management system is computer-based and is used to accession, result, and finalize case results. This position is located in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. This position is grant funded.

Job Responsibilities

• Perform real-time PCR and sequencing assays for various avian and mammalian pathogens
• Accession, result, and finalize cases in the computer-based laboratory information management system
• Prepare samples for diagnostic testing
• Perform QA tasks for molecular testing and virus isolation
• Perform molecular testing on samples
• Perform basic housekeeping duties in BSL2 plus facility
• Participate in required trainings (onsite and offsite) and proficiency testing
• Perform additional duties as assigned

This position is contingent upon grant funding.

Education & Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Biology or a related field and 1 to 2 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Experience performing PCR testing is preferred.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Alternative work schedules, exposure to chemicals. Typically sitting at a desk or table, Occasional lifting 25-50 lbs.

Job Location - City, State

Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Veterinary Medicine

Pay Range

$50,875.00 - $60,000.00 Annual Rate Salary offers are made based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, and in alignment with salary ranges based on external market data for the job's level. Internal organization and peer data at Penn are also considered.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University of Pennsylvania is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, creed, national origin (including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics) , citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status or any class protected under applicable federal, state or local law.

Special Requirements

Background checks may be required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts : Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family's health and welfare. You can also use flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
• Tuition : Take advantage of Penn's exceptional tuition benefits . You, your spouse, and your dependent children can get tuition assistance here at Penn. Your dependent children are also eligible for tuition assistance at other institutions.
• Retirement: Penn offers generous retirement plans to help you save for your future. Penn's Basic, Matching, and Supplemental retirement plans allow you to save for retirement on a pre-tax or Roth basis. Choose from a wide variety of investment options through TIAA and Vanguard.
• Time Away from Work: Penn provides you with a substantial amount of time away from work during the course of the year. This allows y