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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 Profile Title

Research Specialist D

Job Description Summary

The Gene Therapy Program (GTP) is entering a new era of unprecedented opportunity with the great potential to reshape the face of medicine as we know it. Our discoveries have set the stage for successful treatments and possibly even cures for devastating genetic diseases.

The laboratory of Dr. Jim Wilson, at GTP of the University of Pennsylvania, has been a leader in the development of innovative vector technology for close to three decades. We have emerged as the “go-to” organization for public and private partners, who want to participate in the gene therapy space. Currently, we are positioned to lead another round of vector innovation and establish pre-clinical and clinical proof-of-concept in therapeutic applications of in-vivo genome editing.

Continuation of all GTP positions is contingent upon funding.

Job Description

We are currently looking In Vivo Studies Lead, to coordinate the in vivo study activities for the Lysosomal Storage Disease (LSD) research team as well as conduct translational research studies. 

As an In Vivo Studies Lead, you will coordinate all in vivo studies across all animal models for LSD research team (15+ studies at any point of time, maintaining the master schedule and holding technicians accountable for animal study responsibilities. You will design and implement gene transfer studies as it relates to LSD programs, conducting both in vitro and in vivo assays.You will perform multiplex data analysis using computer programs and prepare scientific presentations as well as participate in manuscript preparation. You will be able to work independently, develop collaborations with co-workers and peers at other labs and troubleshoot as needed.

You will also partner with the Director, Research LSD to develop and/or update research protocols for improved quality and efficiency of research programs You will lead the  roll out of new protocols to LSD team and train others on new/updated protocols as needed. You will become Subject Matter expert for all research protocols for LSD group. 

Joining GTP offers scientific professionals the unique opportunity of seeing their research go from bench to bedside and discoveries that could one day lead to cures.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or in adjacent field with strong understanding of Molecular Biology and Virology concepts and 3+ years of post-degree bench laboratory. experience or an equivalent combination of education and expertise required
• Experience with Molecular Biology and Biochemistry techniques/assays (cloning, isolations, PCR, ELISA, western blot, electrophoresis, animal/colony handling/maintenance, and dissection) a must!
• Must be willing to learn new techniques involving molecular and cell biology, protein biochemistry, virology, immunology, bioinformatics, and biotechnology.
• Must have the ability to follow existing and ability to develop novel protocols and methods.
• Outstanding interpersonal interaction skills, excellent written and oral communication skills, problem recognition and solving, and organizational skills required.  
• Prior experience in the field of gene therapy is desirable.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

Perelman School of Medicine

Pay Range

$50,684.00 - $91,232.00

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.