The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), School of Nursing - Department of Pain & Translational Symptom Science is seeking a molecular biology-focused Lead Laboratory Research Specialist to work with our collegial, dynamic and vibrant team of faculty, staff and trainees to advance our work in identification of the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with chronic pain. Funded by multiple NIH R01 grants, our team is particularly interested in using multiomics data collected from both preclinical rodent models and human chronic pain cohorts to identify novel biomarkers of chronic pain, the transition from acute to chronic pain and individual response to pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions. We are also actively investigating and validating novel, non-addictive therapeutic targets for chronic pain treatment. The ideal candidate will have significant experience with a range of basic and advanced molecular and cellular assays including RNA and DNA extraction and purification, qPCR, cloning, cell culture, western blotting and immunohistochemistry. Experience with programming and bioinformatics preferred. The incumbent will be responsible for the design, protocol development and implementation of experiments, including rigorous attention to required documentation.

Benefits Information:

UMB offers a generous benefits package that includes 22 vacation days, 14 floating and holidays, 15 sick days; comprehensive health insurance and retirement options; and tuition remission for employees and their dependents at any of the University System of Maryland schools.

Essential Functions:

• Lead and perform independent project(s) and participate in the design of research studies.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications. Experience with programming and scripting languages commonly used in bioinformatics preferred.
• Independently perform day to day laboratory research activities such as: RNA and DNA extractions, protein extractions, qPCR, PCR, western blotting, cell culture, immunohistochemistry, western blotting and other molecular and cellular based assays.
• Track, monitor and manage biospecimen collection, storage and maintenance.
• Administer day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety compliance, developing policies and procedures, and ordering supplies.
• Maintain proper operation of research equipment, ensuring proper operation records, cleaning, ordering of required components and explaining/resolving technical issues.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education: Bachelor's degree in neuroscience, biology, chemistry or field of study related to the research of the laboratory. M.S. degree preferred.

Experience: Five (5) years of experience including three (3) years in the relevant research specialization - preferably neuroscience.

Other: May consider a combination of directly related experience and education.

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

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

Knowledge of position requirements. Knowledge of all applicable requirements, regulations, and laws. Skill in effective use of applicable technology/systems. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Meticulous attention to detail and regulatory issues. Ability to work cooperatively with others and independently.

Preferred Skills:

Skills in molecular biology including cloning, transfection, qPCR etc. and ability to perform primary cell culture of mouse astocytes and neurons.

Hiring Range: Commensurate with education and experience

If accommodations are needed for a disability, please contact Staffing & Career Services at 410-706-2606, Monday - Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm EST. Maryland Relay can be accessed by dialing 711 (in-state) or 1-800-735-2258.

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.