The Johnson laboratory is hiring a highly motivated and proficient Research Specialist II 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 Research Specialist II will drive forward 1) a fully funded project evaluating a novel implantable eye pressure sensor in rabbits that involves the planning and execution of a number of experiments including the implantation of the device into the eye, multimodal measurement of intraocular pressure and aqueous humor dynamics, clinical examinations of the eye, and histological evaluation of the ocular tissues and 2) stem cell derived neuronal transplantation in non-human primates. 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. The candidate will also contribute to data reporting in the form of co-authorship on conference presentations and published research manuscripts.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

• Plan and organize surgical implantation of an intraocular pressure sensor.
• Assist ophthalmic surgeons with experimental ocular surgery.
• Conduct clinical examinations and ocular measurements, and detailed record keeping.
• Plan and organize surgical transplantation of neurons in Rhesus Macaques and manage post-transplant Immunosuppression therapy.
• Independently perform animal surgeries, tissue sample collection/processing, and experiments such as cell culture, western blotting, PCR, immunostaining, immunohistochemistry with minimal supervision.
• Independently image samples on confocal microscope and process the images with relevant tools and software.
• 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.
• 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.
• Offer constructive feedback to peers, encourage team goals, and contribute to a dynamic and inclusive team environment.
• Assess and improve laboratory productivity and cost-efficiency.
• Continuously learn new techniques and methods as required for the advancement of research goals.
• Develop, validate and record new assays and protocols.
• communicate regularly and effectively with advanced professional and scientific manner.
• Extract scientific information from literature/lectures/seminars and translates into productive contributions to lab interests.
• Make decisions regarding research projects that may require assessment, revision of objectives, or altering scientific direction; considers resources and lab priorities when making decisions.
• Exercises authority and intervenes to resolve scientific and administrative issues.
• Performs constructive self-assessment and solicits feedback from faculty and/or other lab members as appropriate.

• BA/BS or equivalent biology, neuroscience, molecular biology, or related field. MS and/or PhD preferred.
• Prior laboratory experience required, 2-3 years, education may substitute for experience to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.
  

Classified Title: Research Specialist II
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB
Starting Salary Range: $40,900 -$71,600 Annually ($56,250 targeted; 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