Senior Research Specialist (II/III)

We currently have an opening for a Senior Research Specialist to join the laboratory Dr. Ruslan Medzhitov at Yale University. The Medzhitov Lab  has several areas of focus: evolutionary medicine; biology of inflammation and its relation to physiology and homeostasis; mechanisms and functions of allergy; tissue biology; non-canonical functions of the immune system; and the logic of gene expression programs.  More information on their work can be found on their website.This role will be responsible for overseeing experimental and analytical work, as well as ensuring seamless operation of the lab through close partnership with the Investigator and Lab Manager.  It sits at the unique juncture of Lab Administration and benchwork, with a leadership role in lab organization.  As such, we are looking for someone who not only has a passion for science, but an understanding of the important of lab administration and a deep interest in helping the lab function at its highest level.This person will serve as the highest ranking non-Investigator scientific role within the lab, and will be responsible for many of the day to day operations, as well as assisting with developing solutions to issues that develop.Essential Duties and Responsibilities Research Support:  70%. 

Support the collaborative research environment and provide guidance on technical and operational aspects of research. 

Identify methodological problems in research protocols and develop solutions to those problems. 

Develop innovative techniques and systems required to meet research goals, and may coordinate specialized research functions such as microscopy, nucleic acid synthesis or sequencing, protein analysis, etc.

Use and understand a wide variety of molecular and cellular biology protocols – such as cloning, DNA/RNA sequencing, tissue culturing, preparing reagents and protein gels

Participate in laboratory meetings and read literature applicable to the research area

Assistance with preparation of grant applications and reporting Lab Operations:   30%. 

Oversee and/or implement all policies governing the operation of the laboratory, such as laboratory safety, animal protocols, etc.

Monitoring of laboratory inventory and oversight on ordering

Orientation of new laboratory staff

Oversight of process optimization in the lab, and be a change champion for new policies and procedures

Serve as main point of contact for personnel issues

Assist with lab organization and maintenance of inventory, equipment, etc.

Oversee maintenance of mouse colony Along with other duties as assigned by the Principle Investigator, the candidate will serve as the senior member of the lab, acting as a resource for both students and staff for a variety of issues.Qualifications

Master’s Degree in Biology or a related field, or equivalent experience and education

At least 5 years of post-undergraduate experience working in a research laboratory, and familiarity with biology techniques

An understanding of modern research technologies (such as NextGen sequencing, imaging, CRISPR cas-9, etc).  Hands on experience is not required, however familiarity with the techniques is imperative

A strong desire to mentor and teach students of all levels

Excellent analytical, communication, problem solving, and organizational skills

Outstanding writing skills, to support writing reports, corresponding with collaborators, coordinating grant applications, etc

Ability to work both independently and as a team member

Able to learn complex tasks with general instruction, and to use experience to perform a variety of new techniques

Actively seeks opportunities to increase skills and expertise

Familiar with use of social media platforms (Twitter, etc)

Experience with computer graphics or web design a strong plus

The Medzhitov Lab is flexible to hire either a Research Specialist II or Research Specialist III. The starting salary for this position will be based on the chosen candidate’s experience level and qualifications.Research Specialist II – $70,035 (minimum) – $87,500 (midpoint) – $113,820 (maximum)Research Specialist III – $80,010 (minimum) – $100,100 (midpoint) – $130,095 (maximum)Physical RequirementsRemaining in a normal seated or standing position for extended periods of time; reaching and grasping by extending hand(s) or arm(s); dexterity to manipulate objects with fingers, for example using a keyboard; communication skills using the spoken word; ability to see and hear within normal parameters; ability to move about workspace. The position requires mobility, including the ability to move materials weighing up to several pounds (such as a laptop computer or tablet). Work may involve possible exposure to malodorous vapors, low dose radiation, contamination by toxic chemicals and acids and presence of carcinogenic substances. Persons with disabilities may be able to perform the essential duties of this position with reasonable accommodation. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be evaluated on an individual basis.Please Note:This job description sets forth the job’s principal duties, responsibilities, and requirements; it should not be construed as an exhaustive statement, however.  Unless they begin with the word ‘may,’ the Essential Duties and Responsibilities described above are ‘essential functions’ of the job, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act.
https://www.nature.com/naturecareers/job/senior-research-specialist-iiiii-medzhitov-lab-howard-hughes-medical-institute-hhmi-749439