Research Technician – Tissue Recovery

About the Lieber Institute for Brain Development

Established in 2010, the Lieber Institute for Brain Development (LIBD) is an independent 501(c)(3) medical research institute located in the Bioscience Park on the campus of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Hospital in Baltimore, MD. We are one of the few research institutions globally focused specifically on understanding how genes and the environment influence brain development, leading to conditions such as schizophrenia, autism, and bipolar disorder.

Our mission is to plot a new course in biomedical research that changes lives. Through cutting-edge research, we are translating answers into a robust pipeline of new drugs and moving closer to the "holy grail" of medical research: the discovery of strategies for primary prevention. We are a dedicated, multidisciplinary, and optimistic group of researchers utilizing state-of-the-art tools to unlock the mysteries of the brain and transform the approach to developing new treatments and cures.

About the Role

The Neuropathology department is seeking an enthusiastic and self-motivated individual to join our research group. This position is integral to a team that collects and curates postmortem human brain tissue for various research projects. You will serve as a vital link between our laboratory and the Medical Examiner's Office, ensuring the respectful and efficient recovery of specimens.

In this role, you will perform all aspects of tissue recovery, including room preparation, donor preparation, and post-recovery cleaning and decontamination. You will be responsible for collecting postmortem brain specimens, analyzing and selecting viable samples, and ensuring the appropriate and respectful reconstruction of the donor. Beyond recovery, you will maintain tissue inventories, coordinate shipments and transfers, and assist with general lab support, records, and chart maintenance. This role requires tactful interaction with varying personalities and a deep respect for the donors and their families.

Hiring Process

Candidates are hired within the starting salary range for the position, which is the lower portion of the overall range. Placement in the starting range is based on job-related skills and experience as evaluated throughout the interview process.

Equal Opportunity and Diversity

At the Lieber Institute, we are committed to a work environment of mutual respect where employment decisions are based on merit. We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate in employment opportunities on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, genetic information, military service, or other non-merit-based factors.

LIBD is a transparent and collaborative community committed to integrating scientists from diverse disciplines, cultures, and countries. We believe that diverse minds, ideas, and talent are essential to support our mission. Our commitment to diversity goes beyond compliance; it involves including others, respecting one another through active listening and constructive debate, and building trust by sharing information and resources. We value translational science that revolutionizes the field and improves the quality of life for those affected by mental illness, and we foster an environment that supports independent growth through mentorship and a supportive, collegial community.