Assistant laboratory technician job description

Professional Research Assistant (PRA) - Laboratory Technician
Classification :
Full time/Exempt
Salary Range: $45,000-60,000

Based on qualifications and experience

Reports to:
Principal Investigator

Nature of Work


The Walter Lab is seeking a full-time Research Assistant who will conduct molecular assays for tuberculosis (TB) treatment research. This individual will execute complex laboratory protocols involving RNA and cDNA to quantify extremely low abundance
M. tuberculosis
transcripts in culture, mouse, and human samples.


Summary of Lab Focus


Our focus is on the development of novel molecular measures of treatment response in TB based on
M. tuberculosis
RNA. This is translational collaborative research in which the ultimate goal is a practical biomarker that will accelerate TB clinical trials. We use a variety of quantification methods (RT-qPCR, RNAseq, and droplet digital PCR) to study drug impact on
M. tuberculosis
in
in vitro
, murine, and human studies. Our goal is to identify patterns of pathogen RNA that are associated with specific drug exposures and with clinical outcomes such as patient relapse. This work integrates microbiologic insight into pathogen physiology with high-throughput transcriptional analysis and human clinical data. The Walter Lab is committed to the highest standards in research reproducibility and transparency. This position does not involve work directly with live bacteria, animals or humans.


Examples of Work Performed



Perform experiments with RNA following stringent procedures to minimize contamination and degradation Perform reverse transcription reactions Conduct qPCR experiments on reverse transcribed cDNA using 96-well and 384-well formats Dilute cDNA using multichannel pipetting robots Perform droplet digital PCR experiments Maintain detailed, organized, and accurate documentation of laboratory work performed Carefully track samples and record up-to-date sample metadata as part of an integrated analysis dataset Communicate effectively with fellow lab members about analysis and processing status Work towards long-term goals of excellent research reproducibility and transparency Participate in ensuring that the laboratory remains stocked with common laboratory supplies, equipment is properly maintained and serviced, and other general functions necessary for the operation of the laboratory are taken care of in a timely fashion. Complete laboratory safety training
Salary and Benefits:


The hiring salary for this position is negotiable and commensurate with skills and experience. This position is not eligible for overtime compensation.


Minimum Qualifications:



Degree in Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Genetics, or other closely related field Minimum of two (2) years' experience in a molecular biology laboratory Excellent organizational and documentation skills Long-term commitment towards exceptional scientific research
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities



Work experience in a CLIA or CAP accredited laboratory Expertise in molecular biology-based assays and procedures, including RT-qPCR, dd PCR, sequencing library preparation, and nucleic acid extraction and quantification Strong written and oral communication skills Careful attention to details and written record-keeping Ability to collaborate with global research partners in a diverse scientific setting Strong, independent problem-solving ability Ability to work independently as well as on a team
Application Materials Required:
Cover Letter, Resume/CV, List of References


Application Materials Instructions:
APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of complete applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position has been filled.


FOR ALL DRI POSITIONS



For all Full-Time and Part-Time Positions


DRI paid benefits after 30 days:

· AD&D· Short Term Disability· Long Term Disability· Basic Life Insurance · Paid Holidays (pro-rated for part-time)


For all Full-Time Positions


· 403(b) – employee match up to 5% eligibility from your first day.
Benefits for you and your family after 60 days of employment:


· Dental insurance· Vision insurance· Employee assistance program· Flexible schedule· Flexible spending account· Dependent Care account· Health insurance· Health savings account with high deductible health care plan · Buy-up life insurance· Paid time off: Vacation, Sick, Personal Days, paid Holidays Work Authorization/Security Clearance
Candidate must be able to be federally badged via a WOC (without compensation) Letter as administered by the VA and to include any background tests or screenings and VA form 10230 as require by the VA.

Founded in Birmingham in 1941, Southern Research is a non-profit, scientific research organization that employs a staff of over 200 scientists and professionals. In its 80-year legacy of moving science, the organization has helped shape modern cancer treatment practices, including developing seven FDA-approved cancer drugs and testing more than half of active chemotherapies in the United States. Southern Research has conducted more than $30 million in coronavirus research over the past two years, including collaborations on a COVID-19 vaccine currently in clinical trials, and thousands of PCR tests to refine the underlying chemistry of critical treatments. The organization is the highest NIH-funded, non-academic research center in Alabama and has a $150 million annual economic impact.

Southern Research transforms ideas into innovation, and innovation into jobs and economic opportunity. The organization recently unveiled a new strategic plan centered on making Birmingham and Alabama national biotech centers of excellence in partnership with regional academic institutions, policymakers, educators and economic development organizations.

As Southern Research invests in new business lines and grows its core scientific capabilities the Assistant Lab Technician - Histology/Necropsy Support will be responsible for providing general research support in the post-life laboratories. The Assistant Necropsy Technician must have a demonstrated understanding of scientific research and methods, proficiency in a limited set of laboratory techniques, and proven ability to work well within a team. This position will report directly to the Manager, Anatomic Pathology. This position is the first level Necropsy Technician. Persons in this position will have the opportunity to develop skills that will enable them to transition into roles of greater responsibility in the department or other operations or research roles, depending on performance, position availability, and career aspirations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities

* Observes and executes activities consistent with study protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or Laboratory Methods, Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) regulations, and safety and health practices.
* Successfully demonstrates application of newly learned skills and knowledge of basic study design and executes with quality on a consistent basis.
* Executes assigned activities on a study following appropriate procedures.
* Gathers and reviews experimental data.
* Completes necropsy of animals at biosafety levels 1, 2, or 3, as required.
* Collects biological samples including samples for proteomic/genomic analysis and electron microscopy.
* Gathers and reviews experimental data including organ weights and anatomical changes.
* Dependent on divisional resource availability, the Assistant Necropsy Technician - Anatomic Pathology may be responsible for additional activities, including but not limited to:
* Performing maternal evaluations (laparohysterectomy) and teratology evaluations (fetal external, visceral, and skeletal morphology) in rodents and rabbits;
* Collecting samples and specimens at c-section and necropsy;
* Performing processing and examination of fetal skeletal specimens; and
* Providing support to histology group.

Requirements/Minimum Qualifications

* High school diploma or GED
* One year of related experience in necropsy, prosector experience preferred.
* Demonstrates knowledge and application of standard scientific principles, theories, and concepts.
* Ability to work in a team environment.
* Able to work overtime, weekends, holidays when necessary.
* Demonstrated proficiency in commonly used computer programs (e.g., WORD, EXCEL). Demonstrated knowledge and application of standard scientific principles, theories, and concepts.
* Ability to work in the U.S. without employer sponsorship.
* As a Federal contractor, Southern Research may be required to comply with a Federal COVID-19 vaccination mandate. In that event, Southern Research will require that all newly hired employees show proof of full COVID vaccination or authorized exemption prior to their start date.

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations

* ALAT, LAT, or LATG preferred

Work Environment & Conditions

This position is in a laboratory environment and required the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including (but not limited to):

* Eye protection (Safety glasses and/or full face shield)
* Respirator (varies based on tasks and barrier requirements)
* Tyvek/scrub suits
* Nitrile (or equivalent) gloves (varies based on tasks)
* Hearing protection (varies based on tasks)

Immunizations are required for this position and are determined by the study/agent. Some examples include Tetanus, Hepatitis B, Smallpox, Polio, and Influenza.

Physical Demands

This position requires significant physical exertion including (but not limited to):

* Standing, walking, or climbing for extended periods of time
* Lifting, pulling, or pushing heavy objects (sometimes in excess of 50lbs.)
* Perform repetitive and strenuous activities that require standing or Stooping/crouching by bending at waist or legs
* Clear vision with corrective lenses at 20 feet or more and ability to determine colors (no color blindness)
* Fine motor skills and manual dexterity
* Withstanding exposure to constant or intermittent high noise levels

Clinical Services

1.0 FTE, 8 Hour Day Shift

At Stanford Children's Health, we know world-renowned care begins with world-class caring. That's why we combine advanced technologies and breakthrough discoveries with family-centered care. It's why we provide our caregivers with continuing education and state-of-the-art facilities, like the newly remodeled Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. And it's why we need caring, committed people on our team - like you. Join us on our mission to heal humanity, one child and family at a time.

Job Summary

This paragraph summarizes the general nature, level and purpose of the job.

The Gamete Biologist Assistant supports the Gamete Biologists and other team members in both project work and lab workflows. Contributes to the management of diverse aspects of the service/program including but not limited to lab setup, paperwork, data entry into BBS/Epic, QC charts, discards, shipments, ID'ing, inventory, cleaning, sample handling and other duties as needed. The Gamete Biologist Assistant works with the administrative, clinical, and management teams to support operations, project work, and customer service. Provides support to all functions of the team.

Essential Functions

The essential functions listed are typical examples of work performed by positions in this job classification. They are not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities. Employees may also perform other duties as assigned.

Employees must abide by all Joint Commission Requirements including but not limited to sensitivity to cultural diversity, patient care, patient rights and ethical treatment, safety and security of physical environments, emergency management, teamwork, respect for others, participation in ongoing education and training, communication and adherence to safety and quality programs, sustaining compliance with National Patient Safety Goals, and licensure and health screenings.

Must perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the Service Standards of the Hospital(s).

+ Under the supervision of the Embryologist, assists with culture plate set-up, sperm processing set-up, retrieval set-up, sample discards, cryopreservation set-up, and transfer set-up.

+ Assists with routine laboratory maintenance including patient requests for embryo/sperm inventory, measuring and filling liquid nitrogen tanks, completing lab QC logs, and maintain lab records within BabySentry for SART submission.

+ Assists with optimization of clinic and operational workflows and metric tracking.

+ Maintains and updates embryos/sperm disposition database.

+ Assists in daily paperwork setup. Drafts and disseminates documentation as needed.

+ Coordinate shipping/receiving of specimens with clinic and courier. Prepare PGS/PGD samples for shipping.

+ Create and validate cryopreservation inventory billing lists.

+ Performing calibrations, quality control, troubleshooting, and maintenance on lab equipment.

+ Screens incoming calls for the lab. Relays information to appropriate individuals in a timely manner.

+ Participate in yearly lab shutdown cleaning process.

+ Performs other IVF Lab tasks as directed by Lab manager.

Minimum Qualifications

Any combination of education and experience that would likely provide the required knowledge, skills and abilities as well as possession of any required licenses or certifications is qualifying.

Education: Associate's degree in a work related field.

Experience: One (1) year experience in administrative/data collection -OR- One (1) year laboratory/research experience.

License/Certification: None Required

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

These are the observable and measurable attributes and skills required to perform successfully the essential functions of the job and are generally demonstrated through qualifying experience, education, or licensure/certification

+ Ability to speak, read, write, and understand English effectively at a level appropriate for the job.

+ Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information, e.g. protected health information (PHI)

+ Ability to adapt to an ever-changing, fast-paced environment.

+ Ability to establish priorities and meet deadlines.

+ Ability to solve problems and identify solutions

+ Ability to use good judgment and in a team setting

+ Strong organizational skills

+ Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication (both verbal and written) skills

+ Strong computer skills and experience with Microsoft Office software (i.e., Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and computer database programs.

+ Ability to analyze information and situations, prioritize tasks, develop solutions, and make recommendations

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

The Physical Requirements and Working Conditions in which the job is typically performed are available from the Occupational Health Department. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Equal Opportunity Employer

L ucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford strongly values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination in all of its policies and practices, including the area of employment. Accordingly, LPCH does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation or gender identity, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or disability, or the perception of any of the above. People of all genders, members of all racial and ethnic groups, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Qualified applicants with criminal convictions will be considered after an individualized assessment of the conviction and the job requirements, and where applicable, in compliance with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. REQNUMBER: 15771-1A