OPS Research Scientist

About the Role

The Research Scientist will support research in Dr. Manas R. Biswal’s laboratory investigating mechanisms of retinal degeneration and developing gene- and drug-based therapies for retinal degenerative and neovascular diseases. This position requires current work authorization in the United States and is not eligible for Visa Sponsorship.

Key Responsibilities

• Performs mammalian cell culture, including retinal pigment epithelial cells, using sterile techniques. Conducts cell viability, oxidative stress, and other functional assays.
• Performs molecular and biochemical assays, including DNA/RNA isolation, PCR, quantitative PCR, Western blotting, and immunostaining. Assists with viral vector–based gene delivery studies.
• Performs retinal and ocular histology, including tissue fixation, processing, sectioning, staining, and immunostaining. Acquires and analyzes microscopic images to assess retinal structure and cellular changes.
• Supports animal breeding, colony management, handling, and genotyping. Performs approved intraperitoneal injections, oral gavage, and other treatment administration following appropriate training.
• Assists with subretinal and intravitreal injections and laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) in mice, including animal preparation, procedural support, and postoperative monitoring.
• Performs or assists with retinal imaging using spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and fundus photography, and retinal function testing using electroretinography (ERG), including data acquisition and analysis.
• Performs or assists with approved euthanasia, tissue collection, and ocular dissection, including isolation of the retina and retinal pigment epithelium/choroid.
• Maintains accurate experimental records and sample inventories. Prepares graphs, tables, and figures for reports, presentations, and publications.
• Maintains laboratory equipment and supplies, prepares reagents, coordinates repairs, and follows laboratory safety, biosafety, and approved animal research protocols.
• Collaborates with laboratory personnel, assists with training and research documentation, and provides occasional weekend or after-hours support for experiments and animal monitoring.
• Performs other assigned duties.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Minimum Qualifications:
• A Bachelor’s degree in a natural, physical, or medical science.
• Demonstrated competency in molecular biology and laboratory techniques, including microscopy.
• Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience can substitute for a bachelor's degree.
• Preferred Qualifications:
• A Master’s degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Pharmacy, or a related life science discipline.
• Prior experience in mammalian cell culture, molecular biology, histology, laboratory maintenance, mouse handling, and animal experiments is preferred.
• Strong organizational, data analysis, and teamwork skills are desirable.

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.