The University of Pittsburgh's Department of Computational and Systems Biology is seeking a Senior Research Specialist. The incumbent will be integral to launching and running a new research laboratory within the department under the direct supervision of an Assistant Professor. The research aims to quantitatively understand cell-cell signaling in early embryos. The lab will develop and employ new optogenetic methods to interrogate signaling in human cell culture models.

The incumbent is required to have experience in general molecular biology (i.e. molecular cloning) and mammalian cell culture techniques. Experience with fluorescence microscopy would be considered a plus but is not required. Attention to detail, excellent organizational and computer skills are a must. Incumbent must be a team player. The laboratory will also perform research using early zebrafish embryos as a model system. Work with zebrafish is not required for this position, however; the incumbent will have the opportunity to gain experience with the system if desired.

Techniques that will be used for the research include, but are not limited to: - Designing and building expression constructs for use in mammalian stem cells. - Human and mouse stem cell culture and transfection - Establishing mutant and transgenic stem cell lines (e.g. by PiggyBac and Cas9 genome editing) - Expression analysis by qPCR, in situ hybridization and immunofluorescence - Fluorescence microscopy (e.g. confocal and light sheet) and image analysis Additional responsibilities will include, but not be limited to: - Preparing and monitoring budgets - Ordering reagents and laboratory equipment - Maintaining Laboratory Safety guidelines from the government and the university - Developing procedures and pipelines - Introducing novel technologies to the laboratory - Coordinating research activity, including data generation, quality control analyses, freezer stock organization and data storage - Training and supervising various personnel - Writing, editing, and figure preparation for grants and manuscripts - Presenting research within and outside university (posters, talks)

At least 3 years of experience working with mammalian cell culture are required for the position. Independence and strong organizational skills are required.