Research Specialist – Developmental Biology

Washington University in St. Louis; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 42,000 - 76,000; Full time

Job summary

Washington University in St. Louis is seeking a skilled laboratory researcher to perform complex analyses and experiments under the PI’s direction. The role involves planning, developing, and presenting research results, and may include contributions to grants and publications.

The position requires a Master’s degree or equivalent in education/experience, 4 years of lab experience, and strong problem-solving and communication skills. It is a full-time, on-site role in St.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Laboratory experience of 4 years in a research setting.
• Ability to work under the PI and adhere to department protocols.

Responsibilities

• Performs complex analyses, experiments and project work under general direction of the PI; may lead as needed.
• Plans, develops and presents research results; conducts literature searches and may co-author publications.
• Troubleshoots equipment or procedures; develops and optimizes experimental protocols.
• Serves as department's research representative and may participate in meetings; conducts data analysis as needed.
• Maintains documentation on lab conditions and summarizes information for presentations or reports.

Skills

Critical Thinking

Detail-Oriented

Laboratory Instrumentation

Laboratory Research

Oral Communications

Recordkeeping

Self-Starter

Spreadsheets

Statistical Software

Written Communication

Education

Master's degree

Master's degree or combination of education/experience

Tools

Software Program

Job description

Location

ST. LOUIS, MO 63110

Scheduled Hours

40

Position Summary

Our laboratory in the Department of Developmental Biology studies the molecular mechanisms that regulate skeletal muscle function in health and disease, as well as the evolution of muscle properties across species. We combine mouse and cell culture models with a unique collection of muscle samples from diverse species, including black bears, cheetahs, and sloths. Using approaches in molecular and cellular biology, genomics, imaging, and muscle physiology, we aim to uncover mechanisms that can be used to develop new treatments for muscle diseases.

Provides critically complex research and experimentation for department/s allowing the advancement of scientific analysis and discovery. Serves as a subject matter expert offering support, training and guidance relative to the discipline/area. May participate and or present on the research developed, or the established work of those within the department.

Job Description

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Performs complex analyses, experiments and project work under general direction of the PI. Serves as representative for PI and ensures procedures and protocols are adhered to consistently and effectively meet department's standard. Exhibits a high degree of independent problem solving and ability to conduct research on assigned projects. May serve in lead role as needed.
• Plans, develops, organizes and formalizes research results and findings. May develop for presentation and/or present on behalf of department. Conducts literature searches related to research projects. Writes/co-authors publications and/or papers supporting research findings in logical and sometimes multiple formats tailored to audiences. May participate in work related to grants.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulty with equipment or test subjects. Suggests technical/ procedural improvements in various methods. May develop and optimize experimental procedures and protocols. Provides high-level troubleshooting to advance process or lab procedures.
• Serves as department's research representative and may participate in various related meetings and events. Gathers/delivers data/information and serves as subject matter expert. Performs statistical data analysis, as needed. Presents research information to internal and/or external audiences.
• Organizes and maintains required documentation on lab and/or specimen conditions and can develop and summarize information into usable formats or presentations on behalf of the department. May communicate findings to various users or external audiences.
• Performs all related work in accordance with established protocols and safety/compliance requirements.
• May explain methods, lead or train other personnel or observers.

Working Conditions:

Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified. Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

Required Qualifications

Education:

Master's degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.

Certifications /Professional Licenses :

No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.

Work Experience:

Laboratory Setting (4 Years)

Skills:

Not Applicable

Driver's License:

A driver's license is not required for this position.

More About This Job

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

Preferred Qualifications

Education:

No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Certifications /Professional Licenses :

No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Work Experience:

No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.

Skills:

• Critical Thinking
• Detail-Oriented
• Laboratory Instrumentation
• Laboratory Research
• Oral Communications
• Recordkeeping
• Self-Starter
• Software Program
• Spreadsheets
• Statistical Software
• Written Communication

Grade

R09

Salary Range

$41,700.00 - $75,600.00 / Annually

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Questions

For frequently asked questions about the application process, please refer to our External Applicant FAQ .