UNIV - Research Specialist I - Department of Pharmacology & Immunology, Neurosurgery & Veterans Affairs

Research Specialist I - Department of Pharmacology & Immunology, Neurosurgery & Veterans Affairs

The Haque Lab at the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) and the Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center conducts translational research focused on understanding mechanisms of inflammation, cancer, neurodegeneration, and spinal cord injury. Current research programs investigate (1) the effects of estrogen and related estrogenic compounds on spinal cord injury using preclinical laboratory and animal models and (2) neuroimmune mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases using complementary in vitro and in vivo approaches.

The Research Specialist I will provide technical support to the Principal Investigator and research team in conducting laboratory and animal studies, maintaining experimental protocols, and supporting the day-to-day operations of the laboratory. The position offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in multidisciplinary biomedical research involving molecular, cellular, immunological, and animal-based approaches.

Job Duties:

• Directly responsible for spinal cord injury experiments, experimental sample preparation and analysis using biochemical, immunological, and molecular assays on fresh tissues, blood samples, and cultured cells. (30%)
• Responsible for daily operations to include the efficient use of instrumentation, ordering, shipments, lab maintenance, and inventory of laboratory supplies. (25%)
• Participate in research with animal models, tissue culture, gene transfer in primary and established cell lines, immunostaining, rehab and behavioral studies. (25%)
• Responsible for preparation of experimental reports, assisting with lab protocols, manuscripts, and grants as they arise. (20%)

Additional Knowledge, Skill and Ability Preferred: Perform experiments as assigned by the Principal Investigator. Assist and provide skilled technical support, analyze and record results/data, participate in development of experimental procedures, prepare lab protocols, mouse and rat handling, and maintain inventory of laboratory supplies.

Position start date: November 1, 2026