Dedicated to discovering causes, prevention, treatments, and cures, the Emory National Primate Research Center (ENPRC/EPC) is fighting diseases and improving human health and lives worldwide. One of seven National Primate Research Centers funded by the NIH, EPC conducts studies that make breakthrough discoveries possible. Learn more at http://www.enprc.emory.edu

The Emory Vaccine Center within the EPC at Emory University is currently seeking a full time Research Specialist to join our lab. Our research consists of analysis of human cellular immune responses in infants, children, and adults living with and without HIV and/or Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The laboratory is also designated as an Immunology Specialty Laboratory for the NIH-funded AIDS Clinical Trials Group (ACTG). The candidate will conduct immunological assays to measure innate, adaptive, and humoral immunity in human blood samples collected from domestic and international cohorts, as well as HIV/AIDS/TB clinical trials samples. The candidate will be responsible for receipt, shipping, and storage of human specimens, database management, ordering and maintain laboratory supplies, conducting immunology experiments, assisting with data analysis, ensuring quality assurance/quality control measures, and participating in lab meetings and journal clubs.

Collaborate. Innovate. Serve. These three simple words capture what we do at EPC 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 performing independently or in supervisory roles in research activities requiring an advanced level of knowledge in a field of science or learning, are predominantly intellectual and varied in character, and can maintain consistent use of discretion and judgment, this is an amazing opportunity to indirectly save and change lives and make a positive impact in the science and research community.

The ideal candidate should be motivated, dependable, detail-oriented, have a positive attitude and passion for research. 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 management team, PI’s, research staff, students, and other support services.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• 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.
• 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.
• Experience with performing experiments in a molecular biology / microbiology / immunology laboratory.
• Experience with computer-based data entry and database management.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Prism, REDCap, Stata, and/or R.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

• Work environment involves working with biohazardous blood and tissues.
• Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.
• Work is normally performed in a typical laboratory environment.
• Requires the ability to bend, kneel, and/or squat.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING STATEMENT:

Emory NPRC in conjunction with Emory University conducts pre-employment screening for all positions which may include an INA and criminal background check, verification of work history, academic credentials, licenses, and certifications, drug screening, and health assessment. Employment is contingent upon a clear background screening.

NOTE: Position tasks are generally required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location. Remote work from home day options may be granted at department discretion. Emory reserves the right to change remote work status with notice to employee.