University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Job Description Summary

The Research Investigator Sr (SRI) will act in a leadership role, overseeing and designing advanced experiments. He/She will assist the Principal Investigator and play a leading role in developing a research program in the advancement of specific area of study and will play a crucial role both in all aspects of research products including development, implementation, and data analysis. In the development stage, the SRI will assess proposed projects by conducting feasibility studies to provide valuable input regarding viability, efficiency, timeline, and study design. In the implementation stage, he/she will supervise and perform the project. This includes overseeing workflow and productivity of lab personnel and providing training to them on specific techniques as necessary. Finally, the SRI will be responsible for data analysis, preparation of manuscripts, and presenting research findings through various forums. Senior Research Investigator must demonstrate the ability to analyze and present data in professional "publication ready" format and to be able to independently prepare manuscripts and grant writings for submission.

Job Description

The purpose of this position is to perform research to better understand the therapeutic mechanisms of novel antigen-specific cellular immunotherapies for autoimmunity. A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree and at least 5 years’ experience in immunology and autoimmunity, including mouse models, flow cytometry, lentiviral production, cloning, epitope mapping, and immunoassays (ELISA, ELISPOT) is required.  The individual should be able to work in a highly collaborative and fast-paced environment to both develop novel projects and support ongoing projects in the laboratory.

Responsibilities/Duties

The purpose of this position is to perform research to better understand the therapeutic mechanisms of novel antigen-specific cellular immunotherapies for autoimmunity. The individual should be able to design and execute experiments independently, focusing on autoimmune mouse models, flow cytometry, lentiviral production, cloning, epitope mapping, and immunoassays (ELISA, ELISPOT). Written reports and Powerpoint presentations of data are expected.

• Independent design and execution of all experiments
• Development of animal models for autoimmunity and cellular immunotherapy
• Cloning, lentiviral production, transduction, flow cytometry, cell sorting, ELISA, ELISPOT
• Oral and written presentation of work, including lab notebook maintenance, assistance with manuscripts and grant applications
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Qualifications

A PhD or equivalent doctoral degree and at least 5 years’ experience in immunology is required. Experience in autoimmune mouse models or human immunology, flow cytometry, lentiviral production, cloning, epitope mapping, and immunoassays (ELISA, ELISPOT) is required. Strong scientific communication skills through written reports and Powerpoint presentations are required. The individual should also be able to work in a highly collaborative team science environment to support ongoing projects in the laboratory.

Working Conditions

Office, library, computer room; Requires extensive safety training; Exposure to chemicals; Requires protective devices

Physical Effort

Typically sitting at a desk or table; Occasional lifting 24-50 lb. Typically standing or walking; Intermittently sitting/standing/stooping

The position is contingent upon funding.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$32,000.00 - $204,000.00

Affirmative Action Statement

Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Special Requirements

Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.