University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) · 13 hours ago
Laboratory Research Specialist or Lead Laboratory Research Specialist (Sign-On Bonus)
Baltimore, MD
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
$82K/yr - $91K/yr
3+ years expThe University of Maryland, Baltimore is seeking a Laboratory Research Specialist to join the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health. The role involves performing independent research, executing immunological assays, and contributing to the development and optimization of laboratory techniques.
Higher Education
Responsibilities
Perform independent research projects and contribute to study design
Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data using various relevant computer software applications (i.e., including GraphPad Prism, SoftMax Pro, Microsoft Excel, Methodical Mind, R etc.)
Independently execute immunological assays with precision, including ELISAs, multiplexed antibody assays (MSD, Luminex), ELISpot, and functional antibody assays to evaluate human immune response
Assist with the development, optimization, and qualification of immunological assays for the testing of samples collected from human participants enrolled in clinical trials. Identify problems and collaborate on troubleshooting assay procedures
Analyze, organize, review, and interpret data collected from immunoassays. Critically evaluate research data and perform quality control
Maintain rigorous quality control, review assay data critically, and ensure reproducibility of results
Organize, manage, review, and ensure the highest quality of assay data. Assure that all data is clean by following up on data discrepancies, missing information, and any required updates assigned by the sponsors
Isolate PBMCs from human samples and perform accurate cell counting
Conduct flow cytometry analyses for immune cell phenotyping and functional assays
Process biological samples for immunological testing, including aliquoting, reconstitution, and preparation of buffers/reagents
Document experimental procedures, record results accurately, and respond promptly to data queries
Perform routine laboratory housekeeping and manage supplies to support smooth operation of wet lab activities
Shipping biological specimens, generate study-related sample labels, and play a significant role in archiving specimens and maintaining inventories in the laboratory. This is a critical function for which organization, timeliness, and consistency are of utmost importance
Maintain laboratory equipment, monitor functionality, and perform routine calibration/cleaning
Follow and contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all laboratory techniques
Organize sample inventories, label study samples, and ensure proper storage and shipment of biological specimens
Perform other related duties as assigned
Independently develop, optimize, and qualify immunological assays (ELISA, multiplex assays, ELISpot, functional antibody assays, flow cytometry) for the testing of samples collected from human participants enrolled in clinical trials according to study requirements including necessary activities such as FDA submissions. Identify problems and lead the troubleshooting of assay procedures
Lead troubleshooting of complex assay procedures and implement process improvements to ensure reproducibility, accuracy, and high-quality results
Maintain expertise in all routine and specialized wet lab techniques, ensuring independent and precise execution of experiments
Ensure proper documentation of all procedures and development processes. Maintain organization of documentation files, electronic and paper
Oversee and lead multiple concurrent research projects, tracking study progress, managing timelines, and ensuring deliverables meet sponsor requirements
Plan and schedule laboratory and administrative activities, generate detailed project budgets, and monitor spending to ensure efficient use of resources
Generate careful and detailed budgets for projects and monitor funding and spending
Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety compliance, developing policies and procedures, and ordering supplies
Perform final data quality control and prepare large datasets for submission to sponsors, maintaining meticulous records of experimental procedures and assay development
Communicate with study sponsors and both internal and external collaborators. Act as a liaison and point of contact for study sponsors and collaborators, responding to logistical and technical questions
Supervise, instruct, and guide up to four direct reports. Including training of undergraduate and graduate students, post-doctoral, international fellows, and/or junior technical personnel in the performance of a variety of laboratory techniques
Establish, revise, and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and best practices to ensure high-quality data generation and laboratory compliance
Conduct library research and prepares reports, manuscripts, scientific illustrations, and computer graphics for publication. Prepare material for journal articles and grant proposals. Present research findings
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in biology or field of study related to the research of the laboratory
Three (3) years of experience including two (2) years in the relevant research specialization for Laboratory Research Specialist
Five (5) years of experience including three (3) years in the relevant research specialization for Lead Laboratory Research Specialist
May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials, and/or ionizing radiation
Preferred
One (1) year of work coordination or training for Lead Laboratory Research Specialist
Possess experience in routine cell culture and executing cell culture assays
Experience with cell-based toxin neutralization assays is a plus
Knowledge of immunology and bacteriology
Benefits
Comprehensive health insurance
Professional learning and development programs
Tuition remission for employees and their dependents at any University System of Maryland school
Flexible work schedules and teleworking options
Company
University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB)
The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) was founded in 1807.
5001-10000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB) has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (123)
2024 (114)
2023 (99)
2022 (90)
2021 (49)
2020 (67)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
unknownKey Investors
CDA Foundation
2024-03-18Grant
Leadership Team
Scott Bitner
Vice President Finance & Auxiliary Services, Deputy CFO
Diane Forbes Berthoud, Ph.D.
Vice President and Chief Diversity Officer; Professor, Graduate School
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