Emory University is a leading research university that fosters excellence and attracts world-class talent to innovate today and prepare leaders for the future. We welcome candidates who can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our academic community.

Dedicated to discovering causes, prevention, treatments, and cures, the Emory National Primate Research Center (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 Lead 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 Advancing Clinical Therapeutics Globally (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, developing new immunology assay protocols, conducting immunology experiments, data analysis, quality assurance/quality control, 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 Lead Research Specialist will be a team player who is willing to learn on the job and collaborate with lab members and center members. The Lead Research Specialist will work to ensure the highest quality of laboratory research support, and has good communication skills with co-workers, the management team, PIs, research staff, students, and other support services.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Under minimal supervision, performs a variety of specialized and complex research and laboratory tests and procedures.
• Uses independent judgment in applying or adapting scientific techniques.
• May assist in protocol design.
• Investigates and proposes alternative experimental procedures for consideration by a principal investigator.
• Assists in planning and scheduling research procedures.
• Analyzes and interprets results of studies.
• Demonstrates and trains others in the proper use/operation of laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Calibrates, troubleshoots and performs routine repair and maintenance of equipment.
• Reviews literature for related research developments and techniques and compiles findings.
• Monitors laboratory processes to maintain quality assurance standards.
• Records results of studies, compiles and analyzes data and prepares charts and graphs.
• 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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field and two years of research experience, or equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED/DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Excellent interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience with processing human blood samples.
• Experience with multi-parameter flow cytometry panel design, sample acquisition, and data analysis.
• Experience with ELISA and Luminex assays.
• Experience with managing sample repository databases.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, FlowJo, Prism, and 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, health assessment, requirement of various vaccinations (including COVID-19 plus one booster if job requires hands-on contact with animals/NHP). Employment is contingent upon a clear background screening.

NOTE: Position tasks are required to be performed in-person at an Emory University location; working remote is not an option. Emory reserves the right to change this status with notice to employee.

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.