Research Specialist A

University of Pennsylvania

About the Role

The newly established Marin Lab, located in the Department of Cancer Biology at the Perelman School of Medicine, investigates how chromatin architecture and dynamics regulate the stability of the genome and epigenome, how this relationship is altered in cancer, and how it can be exploited to develop better therapies. The lab combines molecular biology, optogenetics, CRISPR-based approaches, next-generation sequencing, flow cytometry, and genetic approaches in mammalian cell culture models. The Research Specialist A will receive hands-on training in these techniques and apply them to investigate mechanisms of genome maintenance relevant to cancer. The role is expected to contribute to experimental design, execution, data analysis, and interpretation, while developing technical and critical-thinking skills. A minimum two-year commitment is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform and develop proficiency in experimental techniques, such as mammalian tissue culture, basic molecular biology, and next-generation sequencing.
• Assist with experimental design, troubleshooting, data collection, analysis, and interpretation under the guidance of the PI.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and organized experimental records, including laboratory notebooks, protocols, and research data.
• Assist with the establishment and day-to-day operation of a newly established research laboratory.
• Order reagents and laboratory supplies, maintain inventories, and monitor stock levels.
• Prepare reagents, solutions, and materials required for routine laboratory experiments.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Mammalian cell culture
• Basic molecular biology techniques
• Next-generation sequencing
• Optogenetics
• CRISPR-based approaches
• Flow cytometry
• Genetic approaches

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, or a related field.
• 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Previous laboratory research experience, preferably in molecular or cell biology.
• Self-discipline, communication skills, and scientific curiosity.
• Experience with mammalian cell culture and molecular biology techniques is preferred but not required.

Position is contingent upon continued funding.

Job Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School: Perelman School of Medicine