Senior Research Specialist-MIB

UT Health Sciences; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 44,000 - 59,000; Full time

Job summary

UT Health Sciences in Memphis, TN is seeking a Senior Research Specialist to assist the Principal Investigator in planning, performing, and analyzing virology and cell biology experiments in a BSL-2 laboratory.

You will conduct molecular virology experiments, generate VSV pseudoviruses, manage lab supplies, and contribute to publications. A Bachelor's degree with 4 years of related experience is required.

Qualifications

• Experience with non-segmented, negative-sense RNA virus reverse genetics.
• BSL-2 laboratory experience essential.
• Experience generating VSV pseudoviruses and using fluorescence microscopy.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute molecular virology and cell biology experiments with cell culture.
• Perform virus recovery studies using VSV reverse genetics systems.
• Conduct cell biology studies including fluorescence and confocal microscopy.
• Maintain records of established practices and procedures.
• Manage lab reagents, primers, plasmids, cell lines and bacterial strains.
• Coordinate with PI to organize work priorities and schedules.
• Oversee ordering of supplies and advise on best purchase options.
• Assist with publication of research results.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Virology techniques

Molecular biology

Fluorescence microscopy

Pseudovirus generation

Cell culture maintenance

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Job description

Job Description

Market Range: 09

Hiring Salary: $3,946.70 - $5,322.69/Monthly

THIS IS A GRANT FUNDED POSITION FUNDED UNTIL JULY 2030

The Senior Research Specialist assists the Principal Investigator (PI) in the planning, performing, and analyzing of research experiments in a variety of virology and cell biology-based laboratory operations in the Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Biochemistry under the direction of the PI.

Responsibilities

• Plans and executes molecular virology and cell biology experiments while being experienced in maintaining cell culture.
• Performs virus recovery studies (using VSV reverse genetics systems), including the generation of VSV pseudotypes as requested by companies or institutions that have licenses with UTRF.
• Conducts cell biology studies (including fluorescence and confocal microscopy analysis, and cell viability experiments).
• Carries out assigned experimental procedures and maintains records of established practices and procedures.
• Manages chemicals, reagents, supplies, oligonucleotide primers, plasmids or other recombinant DNA, cell lines and bacterial strains in the laboratory.
• Consults with PI to organize work schedule and set a comprehensive list of research priorities.
• Supervises the ordering of laboratory supplies, contacts distributors and vendors to determine pricing and availability of supplies or equipment, and makes recommendations on the best item to purchase
• Assists with the publication of research results.
• Performs other related duties, as assigned.

Qualifications

EDUCATION: Bachelor's Degree. (TRANSCRIPT REQUIRED)

EXPERIENCE: Four (4) years of related laboratory experience; OR Master's Degree and two (2) years of related laboratory experience. Must have experience with non-segmented, negative-sense RNA virus reverse genetics, and working in a BSL-2 laboratory. Prior experience with virology and molecular biology techniques to generate VSV pseudoviruses; experience in fluorescence microscopy, excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills are essential.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

• Skill with virology and molecular biology techniques.
• Knowledge and ability to generate a pseudovirus using the Delta-G VSV system.
• Ability to perform fluorescence microscopy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

WORK SCHEDULE

This position may occasionally be required to work evenings and weekends.