Research Technologist
The Department of Pediatrics' Allergy and Immunology Division is currently seeking a Research Technologist to contribute to several multidisciplinary clinical studies focused on food allergies in children. The position entails the collection and processing of various biological specimens, including blood, urine, stool, saliva, skin, and nasal fluids from patients. Primary responsibilities include collecting biological specimens from patients and ensuring proper processing in the laboratory. Utilizing techniques to isolate plasma, serum, basophils, and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from blood samples, as well as various cell types from nasal lavage samples. Conducting assays to assess basophil activation. Properly labeling, logging, and maintaining inventory of specimens, and managing databases accordingly. Packaging specimens in specialized containers for shipment to designated processing sites.
Additionally, the role involves participation in research related to environmental allergens, specifically the analysis of household dust samples for common allergens such as mouse, cat, dog, cockroach, and dust mite. This entails receiving dust samples collected using airborne sampling devices and preparing them for analysis. Performing ELISA assays to quantify allergen levels. Utilizing the SOFTmax Pro program for ELISA data analysis, followed by further analysis and data entry into Excel.
Other duties include ordering supplies necessary for laboratory operations. Preparing buffers and maintaining records. General laboratory maintenance to ensure a clean and functional work environment.
Specific Duties & Responsibilities
This description is a general statement of required duties and responsibilities performed on a regular and continuous basis. It does not exclude other duties as assigned:
- Use basic science knowledge to learn techniques/methods of the lab.
- Perform laboratory tasks and complete routine assays following common or established protocols and procedures.
- Will handle bio-hazardous material under Biosafety Level 2 conditions.
- Gain problem solving skills through progressive training, understanding of the research and experience.
- Understand the role of senior lab members and accepts constructive guidance.
- Interact with faculty, lab and administrative staff, students, postdoctoral fellows, and outside vendors.
- Increase own skill base and knowledge of lab research and relevant assays.
- Train users in standard equipment operation and routine lab techniques and procedures.
- Collect project data, organize/collate and analyze data.
- Recommends revisions to experimental methods based upon observations of the data.
- Prepare, test, and maintain standard laboratory equipment.
- Perform related laboratory maintenance, participate in cleaning rotation of common laboratory space/equipment and monitor inventory of supplies.
- Demonstrate organization, curiosity, problem solving, resourcefulness, and flexibility.
Special Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Working knowledge of GCLP, CAP, CLIA regulations and CLSI procedure formats applicable to a clinical lab.
- Strong working knowledge of computers, skilled in Microsoft Office Word, Excel, file organization, and internet research.
- Must be able to work successfully as part of a team in a high volume, dynamic laboratory.
- Must have the ability to read and interpret direction, both oral and written, organize and prioritize work and follow through on assignments.
- Individual should have strong written communication and interpersonal skills.
- Uses various software applications, such as spreadsheets, relational databases, electronic mail and World Wide Web. Work requires precision and attention to detail.
Physical Requirements
- While performing the duties of this job, the employee may remain in a stationary position (sitting or standing) up to 75% of the time.
- Occasionally required to traverse throughout the laboratory or to retrieve equipment, supplies, or specimens from other locations on campus.
- The employee is required to operate computer keyboard, laboratory instruments and small laboratory tools such as pipettes, cutting instruments, glass tubes, dishes, and/or slides. Constantly repositions self to perform duties at laboratory workstations, gathering specimens, and loading equipment.
- Prolonged vision requirements include viewing computer screen, paper reports/documents, charts and results. Visual acuity is required to distinguish fine gradation of color or structure and closely examine specimens (including via a microscope).
Laboratory Environment
- Exposure to toxins and infectious agents exist, but potential for personal injury or harm is minimized if established safety and health precautions are followed.
- Must refer to and are expected to comply with procedures and be familiar with material data safety sheets in assigned work areas.
- Able to read and understand all Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) guidelines applicable to assigned work area.
- Working in laboratory where there may be discomforts due to odors, noise, temperature fluctuations, and working around lab equipment.
- Research areas may include animal, human, human products, DNA, and radiation protocols. Use of personal protective equipment may be advised or required.
- May transport equipment and supplies usually less than 40 pounds from one area to another (in the laboratory). In some areas workspace is limited.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Chemistry, or related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Some related post-graduate work experience preferred.
Classified Title: Research Technologist
Role/Level/Range: ACRO40/E/02/CC
Starting Salary Range: $15.50 - $26.00 HRLY ($40,000 targeted; Commensurate with experience)
Employee group: Full Time
Schedule: M-F; 8:30 - 5pm
Exempt Status: Non-Exempt
Location: School of Medicine Campus
Department name: SOM Ped Immunology
Personnel area: School of Medicine