Research Specialist

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Description

The Division of Developmental and Cognitive Neuroscience at the Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC) of Emory University is currently seeking a full time Research Specialist to join our lab. Our research consists of understanding the neurobiological mechanisms that underlie increased risk to develop Psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and substance use disorders in individuals that experience early life stress. This position will report directly to Dr. Mar Sanchez. We use nonhuman primate models to understand stress-induced risk for psychostimulant abuse.

The studies are funded by a NIH/NIDA R01 grant, “Early experience and neurobiological risks of adult cocaine use disorder”. The new Research Specialist will assist lab personnel in work with nonhuman primates (rhesus monkeys) to study risks for psychiatric disorders in humans, including substance use disorder. After appropriate training the new hire will perform work in laboratory procedures that involve animal training and behavioral testing, collection of blood samples for hormonal measures, washing/sterilizing experimental equipment, sample processing, data entry, keeping animal records.

The ideal candidate should be motivated, dependable, detail-oriented, have a positive attitude and strong passion for behavioral research, in addition to ability to closely/reliably follow standard operating procedures.  The Research Specialist will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with lab members and center members. The Research Specialist will work to ensure the highest quality of laboratory research support, and has good communication skills with co-workers, the lab manager (Erin Siebert), PI’s, research staff, students, and other support services.

Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at Yerkes to help advance science and improve the health and well-being of humans and non-human primates. If you are someone with laboratory research experience who is familiar with Behavioral Neuroscience or Endocrinology with nonhuman primate animal models, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community. 

Dedicated to discovering causes, preventions, treatments, and cures of disease, Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC) is improving human and animal health and lives worldwide. One of seven NPRCs funded by the NIH, ENBRC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible. Learn more at http://enbrc.emory.edu

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under general supervision, performs a variety of defined research and laboratory tests and experiments according to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules.
• Sets up experiments as prescribed by a principal investigator.
• May be required to participate in laboratory maintenance activities such as sterilization and cleaning of equipment, ordering of supplies, inventory and media preparation.
• Maintains records, files and logs of work performed in laboratory notebooks and computer databases.
• Compiles data and records results of studies for publications, grants and seminar presentations.
• Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.
• Performs related responsibilities as required by principal investigator.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field OR equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
• Previous experience working with nonhuman primates, or other big animals.
• Behavioral testing, animal training, blood draws with animals.
• Basic knowledge of pharmacology, preparation of solutions, calculations of concentrations y dilutions.
• Experience with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel for data entry/management.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

• The work schedule will be discussed more at the interview.
• Work environment involves behavioral work with nonhuman primates, as well as collection and handling of biohazardous blood and other bodily fluids.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
• Work is normally performed in behavioral testing rooms as well as in a typical wet laboratory environment.
• Requires the ability to bend, kneel, and/or squat and to lift 50lbs.
• Requires the ability to train and work with animals.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING STATEMENT: 

The Emory National Biomedical Research Center (ENBRC), in conjunction with Emory University, conducts pre-employment screenings for all positions. These screenings may include an Information Network Associates (INA) and criminal background check, and verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications. In addition, the process may include a drug screening with health assessment, and review and mandate for various vaccinations. Updated COVID-19 vaccinations may be necessary for specific research projects.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

Additional Details

Emory is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment, including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in university programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act, and applicable executive orders, federal and state regulations regarding nondiscrimination, equal opportunity, and affirmative action (for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities). Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Civil Rights Compliance, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322. Telephone: 404-727-9867 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Emory University is committed to ensuring equal access and providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to seek a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at [email protected] or call 404-727-9877 (Voice) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). We kindly ask that requests be made at least seven business days in advance to allow adequate time for coordination.