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.

The Logan laboratory in the Department of Pediatrics at the Emory University School of Medicine is seeking a highly motivated Research Specialist to join their team. The majority of the efforts with be dedicated to investigating the microbial characteristics and genetics of resistance in multidrug-resistant (MDR) gram-negative bacteria (primarily Enterobacterales) affecting children, healthy populations, animals, and the environment. The goal of this work is to identify community reservoirs of multi-drug resistant Enterobacterales, as infections with these organisms have continued to increase despite aggressive antibiotic stewardship and infection prevention campaigns in healthcare settings.

JOB DESCRIPTION:

• Under general supervision, performs a variety of defined research and laboratory tests and experiments according to prescribed protocols and assigned schedules.
• Sets up experiments as prescribed by a principal investigator.
• May be required to participate in laboratory maintenance activities such as sterilization and cleaning of equipment, ordering of supplies, inventory and media preparation.
• Maintains records, files and logs of work performed in laboratory notebooks and computer databases.
• Compiles data and records results of studies for publications, grants and seminar presentations.
• Employees in this classification may be required to work with, take specific precautions against and/or be immunized against potentially hazardous agents.
• Performs related responsibilities as required by principal investigator.

SPECIFIC DETAILS:

Under general supervision of the Principal Investigator or his/her designee and in collaboration with other members of the research team, the Research Specialist I performs technical or laboratory procedures of a routine nature and carries out experiments or tests under an established research design. Principal duties and responsibilities will include:

• Plating of specimens, isolate, identify, freeze and catalog bacteria from clinical and non-clinical specimens
• Perform molecular microbiologic testing by PCR, gel electrophoresis and related methods
• Preparing overnight cultures, plates, media and buffers
• Maintain laboratory with appropriate biohazard discarding and autoclaving of reusable products
• Enter study-related data into computer databases
• Maintain and submit documentation of laboratory work to principal investigator or designee

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific field OR equivalent combination of experience, education, and training.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Some work experience in PCR, gel electrophoresis and DNA sequence analysis is preferable.
• Coursework includING some microbiology and molecular laboratory components.
• Effective interpersonal, oral and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail essential.
• The ability to multi-task, remaining flexible and managing time effectively.
• Able to perform procedures requiring manual dexterity and repetitive motions.
• Proficiency with personal computers including Microsoft Office.
• Able to repeat the same laboratory tests many times with accuracy and precision. 

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.

The COVID-19 vaccine or an approved exemption is currently only required for individuals working in a clinical setting. For more information on the University or Hospital policies, including exemptions, please see our website.

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.