RESEARCH SPECIALIST A/B
University of Pennsylvania

Duties: We are looking for research specialists related to our primary research goals that are directed toward understanding the basis of human germline development and its reconstitution in vitro. To this end, we have identified the origin and the comprehensive developmental roadmap of primordial germ cells (PGCs), the precursors both for oocytes and spermatozoa, in non-human primates (Dev Cell 2016, 39:169). Moreover, we have successfully reconstituted human primordial germ cell-like cells (hPGCLCs) in vitro from pluripotent stem cells (Cell Stem Cell 2015, 17:178). These studies provide the basis for the mechanistic dissection of the human germline specification pathway as well as the further reconstitution of human gametogenesis in vitro. Our future research plans are aimed at further maturation of hPGCLCs. For that, we also aim at understanding the molecular mechanisms of gonadogenesis and the interplay between gonadal somatic cells and germ cells, a prerequisite for the maturation of PGCs. Our studies of germ cell biology in human/non-human primates not only advance our understanding of the most fundamental part of life but also directly link to many clinical applications, such as infertility treatment and screening for the potential causes of infertility.

The holder of this position will be part of a team of researcher in the Sasaki lab within the Department of Biomedical Sciences as Research Specialist A/B. He/she will design and execute research experiments, and provide technical, research and administrative support to the principal investigator. He/she will also oversee organizational aspects of the laboratory including the coordination of technical support workers, reagents, supplies and stocks and purchase and maintenance of laboratory equipment. Motivated individuals will have the opportunity to expand his/her research portfolio by authorship or co-authorship of scientific manuscripts and will be encouraged to participate in educational/research conferences.

Qualifications: A Level: A Bachelor's Degree and 0 to 1 year of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.

B Level: Same as above. 1 - 2 years of experience.

Reference Number: 58-30038

Salary Grade: 024/025

Employment Type: Exempt

Org: Biomedical Sciences

Special Requirements: Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.

Job Family: I-Technical/Professional Research