Open Rank/Research Assistant Lab and Research Specialist, Lab (Dr. Brian Polster)

The Center for Shock, Trauma and Anesthesiology Research (STAR) / Department of Anesthesiology Research at the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Medicine is searching for an inspired, motivated, and disciplined candidate to join a dynamic team. The position involves independently providing guidance and technical expertise to laboratory research projects and overseeing the laboratory’s research activities. This position is responsible for ensuring design, development, documentation and implementation of research procedures and protocols using a variety of complex activities.  The successful candidate is expected to assist several research projects in areas of mitochondrial biology, neuroinflammation, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative disease. Basic knowledge in molecular/cell biology, biochemistry, and neuroscience is required.

This position will be filled either as a Research Assistant, Laboratory or a Research Specialist Laboratory based upon the selected candidates qualifications, experience, and skill level.

UMB offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development. Contingent Category II staff receive a generous leave package that includes over 2 weeks of vacation each year, paid holidays, sick time, and time for community service; subsidized comprehensive health insurance and supplemental retirement options; professional learning and development programs; limited tuition remission for employees enrolled at UMB; life insurance and long-term disability; and flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job).  

Essential Functions:

Research Assistant: Performs routine laboratory maintenance and research activities such as general housekeeping, preparing chemical solutions, media, stains, and buffers; ordering and stocking laboratory supplies, organizing lab space, inventory of laboratory supplies, arranging lab meetings, attending lab meetings and departmental seminars and trainings. Utilizes molecular and cellular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology and quantitative histological for analysis.  Performs advanced laboratory research activities such as managing mouse colonies and genotyping, cell culture, animal sample harvesting, and molecular biological experiments, such as Western blot, ELISA, immunostaining, RNA extraction, and real-time PCR.  This individual may also participate in the design of research studies.  Compiles, analyzes, and interprets research data using various relevant computer software applications.  Assists with literature research, editing and preparing manuscripts, scientific illustrations and computer graphics for publications along with training/guiding students and/or other laboratory technicians, assisting in developing policies, procedures and/or methods for laboratory experimentation.

Research Specialist: In addition to the Assistant duties, the Research Specialist performs independent project(s) and participates in the design of research studies. Performs laboratory research activities such as microglia, astrocyte, and neuron cell cultures and treatment, biochemical fractionations, specialized assays for the measurement of mitochondrial oxygen consumption and other functions, live and fixed cell microscopy, quantitative PCR (qPCR), immunoblot, and ELISA analysis, and rodent surgical procedures, such as controlled cortical impact traumatic brain injury and oral and i.p. drug dosing. Drafts Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocols. Conducts literature research and participates in editing and preparing manuscripts, scientific illustrations, and computer graphics for publication. Contributes to the preparation of journal articles and grant proposals. Presents research findings. Administers day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety compliance, developing policies and procedures, and ordering supplies.

Minimum Qualifications: 

Assistant:  Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or related field of study.

Specialist: Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or related field of study and three (3) years’ experience in laboratory research including two (2) years in the relevant research specialization.

Other: Equivalent combination of related education and experience may be considered.

May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials and/or ionizing radiation.          

Based on level hired, the candidate will be expected to have some or all of the following 

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

•   Possesses a knowledge of position requirements and able to perform position in compliance with all requirements/regulations/laws.  Ability to understand and utilize scientific/medical terminology and research theory.  Skill in statistical interpretation and data analysis using statistical software as well as spreadsheet and database software applications. Ability to maintain high standards with the work being performed.  Assumes personal responsibility for all outcomes; makes effective and timely decisions; and learns how to effectively use technology.  Maintains productivity and uses knowledge strategies to increase knowledge base.
• Able to make independent decisions that are a matter of significance and ability to use measurable and verifiable information for making decisions or judgments. Ability to use a consultative approach to resolve issues in area of responsibility.
• Ability to take a lead role in performing and directing various advanced and routine scientific procedures. Ability to perform independent projects and to serve as a consultant in area of technical specialty. Ability to design and recommend changes to research projects and/or area of technical specialty.
• Ability to diagnose equipment malfunctions and perform simple equipment repairs. Ability to conduct literature research and participate in the preparation of journal articles.
• Effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts.  Write and present information in a clear and concise way.  Interpret and understand written information and is able to listen attentively to verbal and non-verbal cues that lead to a deeper understanding. 
• Ability to work cooperatively with others and demonstrate professional, ethical, respectful, and courteous behavior when interacting with others.  Remain calm and manage conflict, and work well with a diverse workforce.

Hiring Range: 

Assistant- $45,000 - $50,000

Specialist- $60,000 - $67,000

Rank and salary will be commensurate with education and experience.

UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Staffing department at [email protected] .

If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request . You may also contact [email protected] . Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.