Laboratory Research Specialist or Lead Laboratory Research Specialist

The Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health (CVD) is seeking a Laboratory Research Specialist or Lead Laboratory Research Specialist to join Dr.Pasetti's Applied Immunology Laboratory.

The Laboratory Research Specialist position is eligible for a $3,000 sign-on bonus. The Lead Laboratory Research Specialist position is eligible for a $4,000 sign-on bonus.

Benefits: Exempt Regular. 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. This position participates in a retirement program (pension or optional retirement plan/ORP) that must be selected and is effective on your date of hire. Exempt regular staff receive a generous PAID leave package that includes over 4 weeks of vacation accrued each year, 15 paid holidays, 3 personal leave, unlimited accrual of sick time, and comprehensive health insurance;

professional learning and development programs; tuition remission for employees and their dependents at any University System of Maryland school; 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.

• Perform independent research projects and contribute to study design. Compile, analyze, and interpret experimental data using various relevant computer software applications (e.g., Graph Pad Prism, Soft Max Pro, Microsoft Excel, Methodical Mind, R).
• Independently execute immunological assays with precision, including ELISAs, multiplexed antibody assays (MSD, Luminex), ELISpot, and functional antibody assays to evaluate human immune response.
• Assist with the development, optimization, and qualification of immunological assays for the testing of samples collected from human participants enrolled in clinical trials. Identify problems and collaborate on troubleshooting assay procedures.
• Analyze, organize, review, and interpret data collected from immunoassays. Critically evaluate research data and perform quality control.
• Maintain rigorous quality control, review assay data critically, and ensure reproducibility of results.
• Organize, manage, review, and ensure the highest quality of assay data. Ensure data cleanliness by following up on discrepancies, missing information, and sponsor-requested updates.
• Isolate PBMCs from human samples and perform accurate cell counting.
• Conduct flow cytometry analyses for immune cell phenotyping and functional assays.
• Process biological samples for immunological testing, including aliquoting, reconstitution, and preparation of buffers/reagents.
• Document experimental procedures, record results accurately, and respond promptly to data queries.
• Perform routine laboratory housekeeping and manage supplies to support smooth operation of wet lab activities.
• Shipping biological specimens, generate study-related sample labels, and play a significant role in archiving specimens and maintaining inventories in the laboratory. This is a critical function for which organization, timeliness, and consistency are of utmost importance.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, monitor functionality, and perform routine calibration/cleaning.
• Follow and contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all laboratory techniques.
• Organize sample inventories, label study samples, and ensure proper storage and shipment of biological specimens.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

• Independently develop, optimize, and qualify immunological assays (ELISA, multiplex assays, ELISpot, functional antibody assays, flow cytometry) for the testing of samples collected from human participants enrolled in clinical trials according to study requirements including necessary activities such as FDA submissions. Identify problems and lead the troubleshooting of assay procedures.
• Lead troubleshooting of complex assay procedures and implement process improvements to ensure reproducibility, accuracy, and high-quality results.
• Maintain expertise in all routine and specialized wet lab techniques, ensuring independent and precise execution of experiments.
• Ensure proper documentation of all procedures and development processes. Maintain organization of documentation files, electronic and paper.
• Oversee and lead multiple concurrent research projects, tracking study progress, managing timelines, and ensuring deliverables meet sponsor requirements.
• Plan and schedule laboratory and administrative activities, generate detailed project budgets, and monitor spending to ensure efficient use of resources.
• Generate careful and detailed budgets for projects and monitor funding and spending.
• Oversee day-to-day laboratory operations including monitoring the budget, ensuring quality control and safety…