• Research Specialist II

    Johns Hopkins University (Baltimore, MD)


    The Global Enteric Laboratory at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health is seeking a **_Research Specialist ll_** with a strong interest in molecular biology, diagnostics, infectious diseases, and global health. This position offers the opportunity to join a dynamic, multidisciplinary team dedicated to advancing enteric disease research and improving laboratory capacity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

     

    The successful candidate will contribute to several exciting projects, with a primary focus on expanding previous research to validate sustainable methods for preserving biospecimens of enteric pathogens. These pathogens include Adenovirus 40/41, Cryptosporidium, Enterotoxigenic E. coli (ETEC), Vibrio cholerae, Campylobacter, sapovirus, and Enteropathogenic E. coli. The project aims to enhance diagnostic capabilities and assess diarrheal disease burden in pediatric populations across Africa. Additional ongoing projects include a cholera consortium led by Africa CDC and Johns Hopkins University, in collaboration with Scripps Research and National Health Laboratories across five African countries. This initiative seeks to strengthen cholera genomic surveillance and improve laboratory capacity by implementing sustainable, low-cost diagnostics. These projects are funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

     

    As part of this role, the Research Specialist ll will work closely with an extensive network of experts, including laboratory scientists, bio informaticists, and external cholera specialists from institutions such as Johns Hopkins, the University of Virginia, Scripps Research, US CDC, and Africa CDC. This position offers a unique blend of laboratory research, data analysis, and international collaboration, making it an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about infectious disease research and global health initiatives.

    Specific Duties & Responsibilities

    + Conduct laboratory research, including microbiology techniques, such as bacterial culture and identification, and molecular and immunological assays including ELISA, immunoblot, electrophoresis, PCR, qPCR, and basic tissue culture.

    + Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot experimental protocols in collaboration with the supervisor.

    + Maintain compliance with biohazard safety regulations while handling infectious materials.

    + Organize and track sample inventories and laboratory supplies, ensuring meticulous record-keeping.

    + Assist with data analysis, statistical evaluations, and advanced molecular techniques (e.g., VNTR, whole genome sequencing).

    + Contribute to manuscript and grant writing, including preparing figures and tables for publication.

    _Opportunities for Growth_

    + Collaborate on high-impact global health research with leading experts.

    + Gain authorship on scientific publications.

    + Engage in professional development through Coursera online courses and tuition support available to Johns Hopkins employees.

    Minimum Qualifications

    + Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field.

    + Two years laboratory experience performing relevant techniques.

    + Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond HS Diploma/graduation equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula.

    Preferred Qualifications

    + Experience with wet lab PCR methods for bacterial pathogens.

    + Experience with bacterial culture and extraction methods.

    + Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of large international collaborations.

    + 2+ years relevant laboratory experience.

    + Ability to multi-task and communicate effectively.

    + Some familiarity with bioinformatic methods and/or basic programming skills.

     

    Classified Title: Research Specialist II

     

    Job Posting Title (Working Title): Research Specialist II

    Role/Level/Range: ACRP/03/MB

    Starting Salary Range: $41,300 - $72,300 Annually (Commensurate w/exp.)

     

    Employee group: Full Time

     

    Schedule: Monday to Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

     

    FLSA Status: Exempt

     

    Department name: 10001140-Global Disease Epidemiology and Control

    Personnel area: School of Public Health

    The listed salary range represents the minimum and maximum Johns Hopkins University offers for this position, based on a good faith estimate at the time of posting. Actual compensation will vary depending on factors such as location, skills, experience, market conditions, education, and internal equity. Not all candidates will qualify for the highest salary in the range.

     

    Johns Hopkins provides a comprehensive benefits package supporting health, career, and retirement. Learn more: https://hr.jhu.edu/benefits-worklife/.

     

    Equal Opportunity Employer

     

    All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

    EEO is the Law

    https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf