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Posted Job Title
Research Specialist A/B
Job Profile Title
Research Specialist A
Job Description Summary
Research Specialist A: The Lambi Laboratory is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist A to support a growing basic and translational research program focused on extracellular matrix biology, musculoskeletal fibrosis, and tissue regeneration. Dr. Alex Lambi is a plastic and hand surgeon-scientist and cell/matrix biologist at the University of Pennsylvania and the Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center (CMCVAMC). The laboratory studies cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrotic musculoskeletal disease, with particular interest in extracellular matrix proteins involved in collagen homeostasis, matrix remodeling, and fibrosis.
Under the direction of the PI and senior collaborators, the Research Specialist A will perform mammalian cell culture, plasmid-based molecular biology, gene manipulation/CRISPR-Cas9, protein and matrix assays, and development of in vitro models. The position will work across Penn and CMCVAMC and is anticipated to be primarily based long-term within the CReATE Motion Center/Translational Musculoskeletal Research Center (TMRC) at CMCVAMC, while collaborating with investigators in the McKay Orthopaedic Research Laboratory at Penn and the broader Penn musculoskeletal research community.
Research Specialist B: The Research Specialist B will perform the same core experimental work with a higher degree of independence and responsibility. In addition to executing experiments, the B-level specialist will independently optimize and troubleshoot cell and molecular biology workflows; establish and validate plasmid, transfection/transduction, and CRISPR-Cas9 approaches; contribute to experimental design and interpretation; help develop new 2D/3D cell and extracellular matrix assays; coordinate complex experiments across collaborating laboratories; and assist with training students or junior research personnel. Prior musculoskeletal biology experience is not required at either level; strong cell and molecular biology fundamentals, initiative, and the ability to learn new approaches are highly valued.
Job Description
Job Responsibilities - Research Specialist A
• Perform mammalian cell culture, including established and primary cell lines, and conduct cell-based experiments examining extracellular matrix production, remodeling, and fibrosis using established or adapted protocols.
• Perform plasmid-based molecular biology, including plasmid preparation, cloning/construct generation, transfection/transduction, PCR/qPCR, and related…