Whiting School of Engineering’s RNA Innovation Center is seeking a Research Specialist II who will support the Managing Director to oversee and manage research projects and daily operations of an RNA therapeutics research laboratory. Candidate will be involved in developing and producing pre-clinical grade mRNA and RNA molecules. This position requires an in-depth understanding of the context and implications of the research to apply and interpret theoretical knowledge necessary to conduct research. The range of duties includes, but is not limited to: project planning, experimental design, developing methodology, conducting procedures, modifying procedures as needed, data collection and analysis, laboratory management, project management, preparing publications and reports, and communication and instruction. Work may include the training and supervision of staff in performing specific techniques or phases of experiments.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Develop and produce novel RNA molecules using molecular biology techniques including, but not limited to, cloning, in vitro transcription, nucleic acid purification, sequencing, imaging, sizing, cell culture, transfection and ex vivo expression, in vitro translation, and western blotting.
• Collaborate in conception and design of research and in writing grants and proposals.
• Identify and select best options for scientific strategies and research development based on literature reviews and collaborations with colleagues.
• Incorporate new technologies into the laboratory.
• Design and implement modifications to technique, procedures, and quality control measures.
• Identify problems then propose and implement solution plans.
• Present weekly updates for the Center and potentially at professional conferences.
• Co-author/author manuscripts, SOPs, and/or externally facing media for the Center.
• Serve as a resource for laboratory techniques for other members of the Center.
• Manage the laboratory to ensure equipment and supplies are kept in order.
• Research and evaluate options, then make decisions regarding purchase of new laboratory equipment.

Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Basic computational skills (MS Office) required.
• Excellent time management, communication, and organizational skills are required.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field
• Two years laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.
• Master's degree, with related graduate research, may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

• Experience working with RNA strongly preferred.
• Master’s degree or equivalent.
• Experience planning, executing, and troubleshooting projects.
  

• Proficiency in laboratory methods/techniques associated with biochemistry, analytical chemistry, basic cellular and molecular biology, and physical chemistry.

Classified Title: Research Specialist II 
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB  
Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 HRLY (Commensurate with experience) 
Employee group: Full Time 
Schedule: M-F/8:30-5 
Exempt Status: Exempt 
Location: Homewood Campus 
Department name: ​​​​​​​Institute for NanoBioTechnology 
Personnel area: Whiting School of Engineering