Research Specialist

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Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the excellence of our academic community.

Description

A Research Specialist position is available in the Michailidis Lab at Emory University. The lab focuses on Virus–Host interactions using innovative tools including state-of-the-art targeted and whole-genome CRISPR screens, bulk and single-cell transcriptomics, and a set of molecular, virological, and biochemical assays across different viruses (HBV, HIV). The lab also has a special interest in liver-related studies, including viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and immunometabolism, employing advanced primary human hepatocyte culture systems and humanized liver chimeric mice.

The Michailidis Lab is part of the “Laboratory of Biochemical Pharmacology” Division in the Department of Pediatrics and is surrounded by a diverse group of collaborating scientists. The lab is housed in the modern, open-space Health Sciences and Research Building II. Emory University is one of the top US academic institutions, with highly impactful research programs and access to core facilities equipped with cutting-edge technologies. Emory is in the suburbs of Atlanta, a vibrant metropolitan city that combines city-life attractions within a forest landscape.

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.

ADDITIONAL JOB DETAILS:

The Research Specialist will provide hands-on technical support for the lab’s research program, with a primary focus on mammalian cell culture and mouse studies. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated, bench-oriented scientist to contribute to high-impact research on viral hepatitis, HIV, and liver biology within a collaborative, well-resourced environment.

• Establish, maintain, and propagate mammalian cell lines and primary cell cultures using proper aseptic technique, including freezing/thawing and routine quality control.
• Perform and support mouse studies, including colony maintenance, breeding, genotyping, treatments/dosing, and tissue collection.
• Carry out routine molecular and cell biology assays (e.g., Western blot, qPCR, ELISA, flow cytometry, microscopy).
• Prepare media, reagents, and buffers, and maintain detailed, accurate records in electronic lab notebooks.
• Support laboratory operations, including ordering and inventory, equipment upkeep, and biosafety/IACUC compliance documentation.
• Assist with data collection, basic analysis, and figure preparation, and help train students and junior lab members.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

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

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, biochemistry, molecular biology, or a related life-science field is required; a master’s degree and/or relevant laboratory experience are a plus.
• Demonstrated experience in mammalian cell culture and/or mouse handling.
• Careful, well-organized, and detail-oriented, with excellent record-keeping habits.
• Able to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong communication skills, reliability, and a proactive, problem-solving attitude.
• Mammalian cell culture (cell lines and primary cells; aseptic technique).
• Mouse experience (handling, breeding/colony management, genotyping, tissue harvest).
• Molecular biology methods (Western blot, qPCR, ELISA).
• Flow cytometry and microscopy.
• Molecular cloning (plasmid preparation, mutagenesis, lentiviral vectors).
• Sample tracking, data entry, and basic data analysis.
• Laboratory operations (ordering, inventory, equipment maintenance).
• Familiarity with primary human hepatocytes or humanized mouse models is a plus.

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.