The Johnson laboratory is hiring a highly motivated and proficient Sr. Research Specialist with a sophisticated understanding of techniques and a solid foundation in the underlying science, gained from experience with a background in neuroscience and/or molecular biology, to conduct scientific research independently, manage their own scientific projects, and/or support the projects of other lab members. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to experimental design, project decisions, developing methodology, conducting, modifying, and troubleshooting procedures as needed, data collection and analysis. Organizational skills and attention to detail are essential. The candidate will also contribute to data reporting in the form of co-authorship on conference presentations and published research manuscripts. The Senior Research Specialist will be part of team injecting stem cell derived neuronal retinal ganglion cells into mouse, rats, and non-human primates with the ultimate goal of transplanting neuros in humans for vision restoration. Please visit our website- https://johnsonlabjhu.com/

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Preparing and maintaining human cell cultures stem cells; purifying, characterizing and cryopreserving cells, managing/organizing cell inventories for two lines- differentiated RGCs from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) and human- induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).

• Must be well versed in molecular biology techniques- in-situ hybridization, western blotting, performing PCR/RT-PCR/qPCR. Assist in advanced molecular technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 knock in/out and viral (AAV and lentiviral) mediated gene targeting methods.

• Working on cell-derived DNA, RNA, and proteins purification, gene expression analysis, performing PCR/RT-PCT/qPCR

• Perform various glaucoma model and optic nerve ophthalmic surgeries and intraocular injections in mice, rats, and nonhuman primates, preparing and dosing animals in drug studies, measuring intraocular pressures via rebound tonometry, using injectable and/or gas anesthetics via commercial rodent anesthesia machine in accordance with USDA and AALAC or in coordination with large animal veterinarians.

• Confocal and multiphoton microscopy of immunohistochemical studies of explanted mouse, rat, nonhuman primates or human ocular tissues.

• Communicate regularly and effectively with advanced professional and scientific manner. Analyze data and prepare analyzed data for presentation, reports, manuscripts, and grant applications in collaboration with the Principal Investigator (PI) ensuring advanced professional and scientific communication skills are applied.

• Management of multiple mouse lines, including tailing and PCR for genotyping and maintaining database of mouse lines.

• Stay abreast of scientific literature, seminars, and lectures to make informed decisions on scientific strategies, research development, and laboratory equipment purchases. Identify problems, propose solutions, and make decisions on research direction considering resources and lab priorities. Continuously learn new techniques and methods as required for the advancement of research goals.

• Prepare and carry out perfusion fixation of rats or mice, with micro-dissection of ocular and/or brain tissues.

• Execute proper disposal of biohazardous materials, maintain laboratory conditions and other duties as assigned by lab manager.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.

• Four year's experience in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques.

• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

Classified Title: Sr. Research Specialist

Role/Level/Range: ACRP/04/MC

Starting Salary Range: $47,500 - $83,300 Annually (Commensurate with experience)

Employee group: Full Time

Schedule: Monday-Friday, 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Exempt Status: Exempt

Location: School of Medicine Campus

Department name: ​​​​​​​SOM Oph Glaucoma

Personnel area: School of Medicine

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Johns Hopkins University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, age, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other occupationally irrelevant criteria. The university promotes affirmative action for minorities, women, disabled persons, and veterans.