Research Specialist B

University OverviewThe University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.Posted Job TitleResearch Specialist BJob Profile TitleResearch Specialist BJob Description SummaryThe Gene Therapy Program (GTP) is entering a new era of unprecedented opportunity with the great potential to reshape the face of medicine as we know it. Our discoveries have set the stage for successful treatments and possibly even cures for devastating genetic diseases. The laboratory of Dr. Jim Wilson, at GTP of the University of Pennsylvania, has been a leader in the development of innovative vector technology for close to three decades. We have emerged as the “go-to” organization for public and private partners, who want to participate in the gene therapy space. Currently, we are positioned to lead another round of vector innovation and establish pre-clinical and clinical proof-of-concept in therapeutic applications of in-vivo genome editing.Continuation of all GTP positions is contingent upon funding.Job DescriptionWe are currently looking for a Research Specialist B, tosupport research efforts in the Histopathology areas. As a Research Specialist B, you will collaboratively plan and independently conduct/ analyze experiments aimed at the development of new gene therapy methods/applications; you will work independently but will carry out experiments under the management of a supervising scientist enable senior scientific personnel to concentrate on the more complex analytical processes in the laboratory; you will be expected to keep abreast of the work of scientists within GTP, external research being conducted in the same field; and you will help in the preparations of presentations and in writing of original manuscripts. Studies will involve both in vitro and in vivo molecular biology/biochemistry techniques including but not limited to cloning, isolations, PCR, ELISA, animal/colony handling/maintenance, and dissection. Joining GTP offers scientific professionals the unique opportunity of seeing their research go from bench to bedside and discoveries that could one day lead to cures.Qualifications:B.A./B.S. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or in adjacent field with strong scientific background and 1-3 years of post-degree bench laboratory experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience requiredExperience with Molecular Biology and Biochemistry techniques/assays (cloning, isolations, PCR, ELISA, animal/colony handling/maintenance, and dissection) a must!Must be willing to learn new techniques involving molecular and cell biology, protein biochemistry, virology, immunology, bioinformatics, and biotechnology.Must have the ability to follow existing and ability to develop novel protocols and methods;Outstanding interpersonal interaction skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, problem recognition and solving, and organizational skills requiredPrior experience in the field of gene therapy is desirable.