Johns Hopkins University
Research Specialist
The Ludington Lab in the Department of Biology at Johns Hopkins University is seeking a Research Specialist that will support the operations of a research laboratory focused on host-microbe interactions in Drosophila melanogaster. Specific Duties & Responsibilities Design and perform experiments investigating microbial interactions in the Drosophila gut microbiome. Construct and maintain a BarSeq transposon mutant library for genome-wide functional analysis. Isolate and culture gut-associated bacterial strains under sterile conditions. Perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and library preparation for next-generation sequencing. Analyze sequencing data using basic computational tools; collaborate with lab members on bioinformatics workflows. Maintain detailed experimental records and contribute to data interpretation and manuscript preparation. Assist in training and mentoring undergraduate researchers and new lab members. Maintain lab organization, inventory, and compliance with safety protocols. Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Proficiency in molecular cloning, microbial culturing, and next-generation sequencing library prep. Experience with bacterial genetic manipulation, including transposon mutagenesis. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining experimental records. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment. Interest in microbial ecology, host-microbe interactions, and functional genomics. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field. One year laboratory experience performing relevant techniques. Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond HS Diploma/Graduation Equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula. Preferred Qualifications Masters Degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
The Ludington Lab in the Department of Biology at Johns Hopkins University is seeking a Research Specialist that will support the operations of a research laboratory focused on host-microbe interactions in Drosophila melanogaster. Specific Duties & Responsibilities Design and perform experiments investigating microbial interactions in the Drosophila gut microbiome. Construct and maintain a BarSeq transposon mutant library for genome-wide functional analysis. Isolate and culture gut-associated bacterial strains under sterile conditions. Perform molecular biology techniques including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and library preparation for next-generation sequencing. Analyze sequencing data using basic computational tools; collaborate with lab members on bioinformatics workflows. Maintain detailed experimental records and contribute to data interpretation and manuscript preparation. Assist in training and mentoring undergraduate researchers and new lab members. Maintain lab organization, inventory, and compliance with safety protocols. Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Proficiency in molecular cloning, microbial culturing, and next-generation sequencing library prep. Experience with bacterial genetic manipulation, including transposon mutagenesis. Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining experimental records. Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively in a research environment. Interest in microbial ecology, host-microbe interactions, and functional genomics. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related field. One year laboratory experience performing relevant techniques. Additional education may substitute for required experience and additional related experience may substitute for required education beyond HS Diploma/Graduation Equivalent, to the extent permitted by the JHU equivalency formula. Preferred Qualifications Masters Degree in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or a related field.