Discover Your Career at Emory University

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Description

Dr. Kathryn Oliver is currently seeking a Supervisor, Research Specialist to join her team in the Department of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Oliver’s research program broadly investigates ways in which ribosome function and mRNA surveillance impact aberrant protein synthesis in the context of inherited conditions such as cystic fibrosis (CF). Current studies address feasibility of ribosomal suppression as a novel therapeutic strategy for overcoming refractory defects in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) – with particular emphasis on premature termination codons and other rare variants. This includes mechanistic evaluation of global and transcript-specific effects on ribosome fidelity and speed, in addition to biochemical assessments of CFTR protein biogenesis and activity. Research projects are highly innovative and translational, incorporating use of human- and murine-derived materials.

The Research Specialist Supervisor administers research programs/studies by: hiring and supervising research personnel; participating in project planning; and developing, implementing and evaluating research protocols, techniques and procedures.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Supervises staff by orienting, training and providing performance feedback.
• Provides expertise and training in methodology, basic laboratory procedures and equipment operation.
• Prepares and monitors research related budgets.
• Assists in developing and submitting grant proposals and in monitoring grant expenditures.
• Advises principal investigator of changes in reporting or accounting requirements and assists researchers in meeting requirements.
• Develops models for patents, licensing and manufacturing agreements with researchers.
• Monitors and enforces the contracts and monetary returns for products developed through research.
• Performs a wide range of laboratory tests, specimen preparation and experimental procedures for routine and specialized studies.
• Selects or develops effective research methodologies.
• Collects and analyzes results of studies and provides interpretation of results.
• Co-authors or authors publications based on laboratory research and findings.
• Recommends new equipment and supply purchases; investigates equipment malfunctions and schedules maintenance/repair.
• Monitors quality control of media, reagents and cleaning procedures and addresses any problems.
• Keeps abreast of safety procedures and monitors the handling, storage and disposal of hazardous substances.
• Performs related responsibilities as required.
• Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.

ADDITIONAL JOB DETAILS:

Activities routinely performed in the laboratory include:

• Cell culture, nucleotide transfection, and high-resolution microscopy.
• Drug discovery approaches such as high-throughput screening of small molecule libraries and structural optimization of hit compounds.
• Molecular biology techniques such as DNA/RNA isolation and purification; PCR amplification; qRT-PCR; gel electrophoresis; and preparation of sequencing libraries.
• Biochemical protocols including but not limited to cytotoxicity and cell migration assays; protein quantification and visualization (e.g. western blot, protein half-life, immunoprecipitation); cell surface detection of HRP-tagged polypeptides; mRNA stability assays; sucrose gradient fractionation; ribosome run-off assays; and electrophysiology (short-circuit current analyses).
• Processing human clinical specimens (e.g. respiratory epithelia) from CF and non-CF patients, as well as a variety of mouse tissues.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a related science field and four years of research experience of which one year is in a supervisory role in a laboratory, OR equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Possess a background in molecular biology, biochemistry, and/or membrane protein physiology.
• Familiar with data analysis applications such as GraphPad Prism, R, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Superb written and oral communication abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving competencies.
• Possess leadership skills relevant to modern approaches in team-based science.
• Performs tasks effectively, collegially, and with utmost integrity in a fast-paced environment.
• Embrace working with individuals from diverse backgrounds (e.g. gender, race/ethnicity, LGBTQ , physical ability, socioeconomic status, geographic origin, etc).

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.

Emory Supports a Diverse and Inclusive Culture

Emory University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, and veteran's status. Emory University does not discriminate in admissions, educational programs, or employment on the basis of any factor stated above or prohibited under applicable law. Students, faculty, and staff are assured of participation in University programs and in the use of facilities without such discrimination. Emory University complies with Executive Order 11246, as amended, 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. Emory University is committed to achieving a diverse workforce through application of its affirmative action, equal opportunity and nondiscrimination policy in all aspects of employment including recruitment, hiring, promotions, transfers, discipline, terminations, wage and salary administration, benefits, and training. Inquiries regarding this policy should be directed to the Emory University Department of Equity and Inclusion, 201 Dowman Drive, Administration Building, Atlanta, GA 30322.

Emory University is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities upon request. To request this document in an alternate format or to request a reasonable accommodation, please contact the Department of Accessibility Services at 404-727-9877 (V) | 404-712-2049 (TDD). Please note that one week advance notice is preferred.