Research Specialist B/C (Department of Otorhinolaryngology)

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Posted Job Title

Research Specialist B/C (Department of Otorhinolaryngology)

Job Profile Title

Research Specialist B

Job Description Summary

Seeking a highly motivated research specialist interested in studying the mechanisms of post-viral olfactory dysfunction using a human olfactory organoid model system.
The goal of our collaborative team is to 1) develop and optimize this human in vitro model and 2) apply it to the study of viral-induced changes in olfactory epithelial architecture, cellular makeup, and function. Viruses of interest include SARS-CoV-2, rhinovirus, common cold coronaviruses, and others.
The successful applicant will work closely with PI Dr. Douglas and a team of exceptional collaborators in the Department of Microbiology (Weiss Lab) and at the Monell Chemical Senses Center.

Job Description

A Research Specialist B/C is sought to conduct research and provide technical support to projects investing in the mechanisms of post-viral olfactory dysfunction using a human olfactory organoid model system. Techniques utilized include three-dimensional tissue culture, RT-qPCR, immunostaining, and calcium imaging. The position requires basic biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and chemesthesis knowledge. Responsibilities include performing immunostaining, molecular approaches, and live-cell imaging.

The successful applicant will also be involved in laboratory management, including maintaining supplies, equipment, databases, and other basic resources utilized by laboratory personnel. She or he will additionally work with postdoctoral fellows and other trainees to execute experiments for ongoing projects.

In addition to the above responsibilities, Research Specialist C is expected to have advanced knowledge of neuroscience and biology. She or he will develop novel solutions to research questions and employ the established methods. Technology development and troubleshooting will be expected, as well as independently planning experiments with minimal oversight.

The position is contingent on continued funding.

Qualifications:

Must have strong organizational skills, good written and verbal communication skills, the ability to learn new techniques and analytical methods, and the ability to be a reliable and enthusiastic team player. Training and mentoring will be provided; the ability to troubleshoot experiments is expected.

Research Specialist B – Bachelor’s degree and 1 year to 3 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Research Specialist C – Bachelor’s degree and 3 to 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

Working Conditions
Office, library, computer room; requires extensive safety training and/or requires protective devices and exposure to chemicals.

Physical Effort
Typically sitting at a desk or table, typically standing and walking, intermittently sitting, standing, and stooping, occasionally lifting 25 lbs. or less.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$37,220.00 - $65,521.00 Annual Rate

Salary offers are made based on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, skills, and education as they directly relate to the requirements of the position, as well as internal and market factors and grade profile. 

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Special Requirements 
Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

University Benefits

• Health, Life, and Flexible Spending Accounts: Penn offers comprehensive medical, prescription, behavioral health, dental, vision, and life insurance benefits to protect you and your family’s health and welfare. You can also use flexible spending accounts to pay for eligible health care and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.

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• Long-Term Care Insurance: In partnership with Genworth Financial, Penn offers faculty and staff (and your eligible family members) long-term care insurance to help you cover some of the costs of long-term care services received at home, in the community or in a nursing facility. If you apply when you’re newly hired, you won’t have to provide proof of good health or be subject to underwriting requirements. Eligible family members must always provide proof of good health and are subject to underwriting.

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• Flexible Work Hours: Flexible work options offer creative approaches for completing work while promoting balance between work and personal commitments. These approaches involve use of non-traditional work hours, locations, and/or job structures.

• Penn Home Ownership Services: Penn offers a forgivable loan for eligible employees interested in buying a home or currently residing in West Philadelphia, which can be used for closing costs or home improvements.

• Adoption Assistance: Penn will reimburse eligible employees on qualified expenses in connection with the legal adoption of an eligible child, such as travel or court fees, for up to two adoptions in your household.

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To learn more, please visit: https://www.hr.upenn.edu/PennHR/benefits-pay