Sr. Research Specialist

The Johns Hopkins Kreiger School of Arts and Sciences (KSAS) is seeking a full-time Sr. Research Specialist within the Mind Brain Institute who will primarily be responsible for lab management and conducting experiments under the supervision of the Principal Investigator. Experiments will primarily study the neurophysiology of the hippocampus and associated brain areas in rodents.

Specific Duties & Responsibilities

Scientific Research

• Overseeing the day-to-day operations of the laboratory and providing guidance and direction to the effectiveness and efficiency of the labs.
• Conduct independent research using neurophysiological and optogenetic techniques to study brain function, with a focus on the hippocampus and its associated structures.
• Perform surgical implantation of microelectrode arrays and silicon probes for long-term neurophysiological recording in freely-behaving rats.
• Exercise independent judgment while planning experiments, evaluating/interpreting results, and organizing data.
• Develop and implement new data collection and analysis techniques for various ongoing studies in the lab. Communicate with colleagues in the field as necessary for specific guidance on new techniques.
• Perform routine and complex research, including recording with silicon probes, executing virtual reality experiments with custom-made apparatus for rodents, and using other techniques such as manipulation of brain circuitry through optogenetics.
• Independently process and analyze data, formulate conclusions, and create appropriate statistical presentations, including graphs and charts, for research/laboratory results, grant reports, scientific presentations, and manuscripts. Write drafts or final reports for grant agencies and journal publications.
• Attend and present data in lab meetings.
• Monitor scientific literature for advances or problems in techniques, equipment, and drugs relevant to the lab’s project.

Lab Management

• Train all lab members in all standard operating procedures (SOPs) to ensure the efficiency and effectiveness of the lab functions.
• Oversee undergraduate students to ensure that research is conducted consistently in accordance with animal protocols and with adequate supervision.
• Communicate with veterinary staff to ensure that experimental procedures to achieve research goals are consistent with animal health and safety. If necessary, refine techniques in consultation with veterinary staff.
• Ensure that animal care and use protocols are accurate and up to date, including the addition of new personnel.
• Ensure that all safety protocols are followed and update safety procedures as needed; schedule safety training for the team; act as point of contact for safety inspections.
• Receive and unpack packages to ensure accuracy and efficiency for experiments.
• Coordinate proper disposal of chemicals, including drugs, and biological waste, ensuring that all protocols are followed.
• Organize and maintain lab inventory.
• Maintain and oversee a high standard of organization in the lab to ensure the success of projects and experiments, including maintaining service calls, contracts, and required forms.
• Order supplies and materials for a very active research group, including negotiating with vendors, coordinating with departmental staff to make sure orders are placed, and following up on orders.
• Track the lab’s budget across multiple grants and ensure that spending is in line with budget projections for salaries, stipends, research supplies, etc. Charge items appropriately to budgets and comply with the granting agency’s guidelines.
• Provide recommendations for hiring new lab staff and provide input on staff performance reviews.
• Maintain surgical suite.
• Keep accurate lab records for experiments, animal usage, and drug inventories.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Fine motor skills to prepare and surgically implant fragile recording devices are required.
• Ability to exercise professional judgment.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills are required.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills are required.
• Ability to multitask while being meticulously detail-oriented.
• Knowledge of related technology, instruments, and equipment in biology is desired but not required.
• Experience in animal surgical techniques (sterilization, anesthesia, drug delivery) and veterinary care is desired.

• Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.
• Four years experience in a comparable laboratory performing relevant techniques.

• Experience in data analysis and knowledge of statistics is desirable.
• Knowledge of Python or Matlab desirable.
• Experience working in higher education.

Classified Title: Sr. Research Specialist  
Role/Level/Range: ACRP/04/MC  
Starting Salary Range: $48,000 - $66,000 - $84,100 Annually (Commensurate w/exp.) 
Employee group: Full Time 
Schedule: Monday - Friday. Hours vary 
FLSA Status: Exempt 
Location: Homewood Campus 
Department name: ​​​​​​​Mind Brain Institute 
Personnel area: School of Arts & Sciences