The University of Illinois College of Medicine has a Senior Research Specialist position open in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences for studying corneal regenerative therapies using cell and molecular based therapies. Successful applicant will provide scientific and laboratory support to ongoing cell-based clinical trials by participating in cell production/validation, animal studies, imaging/data collection/analysis and manuscript preparation in support of a cell-based clinical trial.

Research

• Collaborate with Principle Investigator to conduct the assigned experiments as it relates to the safety of a cell-based product for clinical trial.  
• Perform procedures related to characterization and potency assays in cell culture and in rodents including pre- and post-operative animal handling as well as administration of anesthetics, analgesics, antibiotics and other test items to rodents.
• Perform ophthalmological evaluations in rodents before and after procedures
• Analysis of clinical and experimental images 
• Monitor project developments on an ongoing basis. Propose and implement changes as needed. 
• Prepare and write scientific findings and works for publications in peer-reviewed journals, and present findings and works at scientific meetings. 
• Ensure compliance with regulations and maintain research records.
• Assist the Principal Investigator, project collaborators, and other personnel with research and educational activities. 
• Working in the Cell and Molecular Biology Core for the Department of Ophthalmology and assisting the participating investigators with specific experiments performed in this core.

Communications

• Monitor project developments on an ongoing basis and implement changes as needed.
• Prepare, organize and communicate research results. Write papers, grants, and other documents for publication based on research findings.

Staff Management

• Act as supervisor or team lead in directing and coordinating the work of lower level staff. Guide, train and advise lower level researchers and students on techniques, methods and procedures.

Perform other related duties and participate in special projects as assigned.

Bachelor’s degree in science or related field required. Master’s degree in science preferred.

A minimum of 5 years related research experience.

Possess and applies advanced knowledge of research principles, concepts, practices and methods.

Proficient in specific lab research techniques.