The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), Institute for Genome Sciences (IGS) is recruiting for a ContractualLaboratory Research Assistant. The research in Dr. Gaykalova’s lab implements creative, innovative, and systematic studies of head and neck cancer to reach a new understanding of cancer biology and improve disease detection and treatment. The selected candidate will assist biological and computational scientists in laboratories by setting up, operating, and maintaining laboratory equipment, monitoring experiments, making observations, recording and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions. Responsibilities include the management of laboratory operations, safety compliance procedures, and purchase of chemical supplies and equipment, as well as the opportunity to work extensively on cutting-edge cancer research projects that involve genomic and epigenomic hypotheses.
This is a Full-Time, Contractual Position.
Benefits (Contingent Category II):
UMB offers a comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes wellness, work/life balance, and professional development, along with additional exciting perks that employees can take advantage of. Contingent Category II staff receive a generous leave package that includes over 2 weeks of vacation each year, paid holidays, sick time, and time for community service; subsidized comprehensive health insurance and supplemental retirement options; professional learning and development programs; limited tuition remission for employees enrolled at UMB; life insurance and long-term disability; and flexible work schedules and teleworking options (if applicable per job).
UMB is a public university and constituent institution of the University System of Maryland. All employees are expected to work primarily physically within the State of Maryland.
Primary Duties:
Perform the standard research tests and experimental protocols such as PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, DNA/RNA/protein/chromatin extraction and purification, and sample preparation in anticipation of sequencing and other downstream analyses.
Troubleshoot existing and adopt new protocols for experimental needs.
Participate in the design of research studies. Compile, analyze, and interpret research data using various relevant computer software applications.
Write the research and review papers and contribute to grant writing and the peer-review process.
Perform in vitro (e.g., cell culture) and in vivo (e.g., animal work) experimentation, which will all be following USDA, AALAC, and University guidelines.
Follow universal safety precautions to protect self and co-workers and maintain sterility when performing experiments.
Follow University and laboratory policies.
Comply with biohazard/radiation safety standards through proper handling of potentially hazardous chemical and biological agents.
Complete annual University biohazard/universal precaution/radiation safety training as appropriate.
Operate basic laboratory equipment such as a centrifuge, pH meter, analytical balance, spectrophotometer, light microscope, biological safety cabinets, and more.
Monitor inventory in the lab and order supplies and equipment in accordance with established policies and procedures, and count orders upon receipt.
Perform other duties as assigned, including but not limited to:
Onboarding of new hires and students
Training new hires, summer students, and rotational students
Communicating with collaborators both within and outside of UMB
Preparing for and sending shipments of samples or other materials to collaborators
Education: Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or other fields related to laboratory research.
Preferred Experience: Previous research and laboratory experience, including work outside the undergraduate laboratory courses.
Supervisory Experience: NA
Certification/Licensure: NA
Other: May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials, and/or ionizing radiation.
Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Ability to understand and utilize scientific/medical terminology and research theory in both oral and written communications. Ability to understand and apply approved guidelines of varying research protocols. Knowledge of best practice in research protocols and procedures. Ability to use measurable and verifiable information for making decisions or judgements. Excellent organizational and project management skills. Ability to use a consultative approach to resolve issues in area of responsibility. Ability to gain knowledge and meet the reporting needs of the university's policies and practices for Institutional Review, Human Protections, Animal Protections and other the like. Ability to maintain high standards with the work being performed and maintain awareness of trends and influences. Assume personal responsibility for all outcomes; make effective and timely decisions; and learn how to effectively use technology. Skill in various interviewing techniques. Skill in data abstraction and entry into study specific database software applications. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Software (e.g., Office, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook). Skill in statistical interpretation and data analysis using statistical software as well as spreadsheet and database software applications. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Writes and presents information in a clear and concise way. Interprets and understands written information and is able to listen attentively to verbal and non-verbal cues that lead to a deeper understanding. Ability to maintain confidentiality of subjects and information obtained. Ability to network with and provide information to key groups and individuals. Ability to work as part of a team. Ability to work cooperatively with others and demonstrate professional, ethical, respectful, and courteous behavior when interacting with others. Capable of interacting pleasantly and positively with others to meet customer expectations and provide follow up with customers. Ability to work independently upon training and cooperatively with others. Knowledge of cellular biology, cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, and epigenetics is preferred.
Hiring Range: $47,000 - $50,000, commensurate with education and experience
UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Talent Recruitment department at HRJobs@umaryland.edu.
If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request. You may also contact HRDiversity@umaryland.edu. Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.
The University of Maryland, Baltimore prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. For more information, follow this link UMB Notice of Non-Discrimination.
Education: Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, biochemistry, or other fields related to laboratory research.
Preferred Experience: Previous research and laboratory experience, including work outside the undergraduate laboratory courses.
Supervisory Experience: NA
Certification/Licensure: NA
Other: May require training related to occupational safety and health, environmental compliance, shipping of hazardous materials, and/or ionizing radiation.
Except for qualifications established by law, additional related experience and formal education in which one has gained the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for full performance of the work of the job class may be substituted for the education or experience requirement on a year-for-year basis with 30 undergraduate college credits being equivalent to one year of related experience. In instances where specific education and/or experience is required only directly related education and/or experience may be substituted.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Ability to understand and utilize scientific/medical terminology and research theory in both oral and written communications. Ability to understand and apply approved guidelines of varying research protocols. Knowledge of best practice in research protocols and procedures. Ability to use measurable and verifiable information for making decisions or judgements. Excellent organizational and project management skills. Ability to use a consultative approach to resolve issues in area of responsibility. Ability to gain knowledge and meet the reporting needs of the university's policies and practices for Institutional Review, Human Protections, Animal Protections and other the like. Ability to maintain high standards with the work being performed and maintain awareness of trends and influences. Assume personal responsibility for all outcomes; make effective and timely decisions; and learn how to effectively use technology. Skill in various interviewing techniques. Skill in data abstraction and entry into study specific database software applications. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Software (e.g., Office, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook). Skill in statistical interpretation and data analysis using statistical software as well as spreadsheet and database software applications. Ability to effectively communicate both verbal and written thoughts, ideas, and facts. Writes and presents information in a clear and concise way. Interprets and understands written information and is able to listen attentively to verbal and non-verbal cues that lead to a deeper understanding. Ability to maintain confidentiality of subjects and information obtained. Ability to network with and provide information to key groups and individuals. Ability to work as part of a team. Ability to work cooperatively with others and demonstrate professional, ethical, respectful, and courteous behavior when interacting with others. Capable of interacting pleasantly and positively with others to meet customer expectations and provide follow up with customers. Ability to work independently upon training and cooperatively with others. Knowledge of cellular biology, cancer biology, molecular biology, genetics, and epigenetics is preferred.
Hiring Range: $47,000 - $50,000, commensurate with education and experience
UMB is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law or policy. For assistance related to employment, please contact the Talent Recruitment department at HRJobs@umaryland.edu.
If you anticipate needing a reasonable accommodation for a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), during any part of the employment process, please submit a UMB Job Applicant Accommodation Request. You may also contact HRDiversity@umaryland.edu. Please note that only inquiries concerning an ADA request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.
The University of Maryland, Baltimore prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to the Title IX Coordinator. For more information, follow this link UMB Notice of Non-Discrimination.