Lab Technician
Job Summary
The Cellular Translational Research Core (CTRC) at the University of Utah seeks a skilled molecular biologist to join our team. This lab technician will primarily focus on processing human tissues and cells for genetic research studies within our institution and at other research institutions nationwide. This entry position offers an excellent opportunity to gain proficiency in handling and processing human samples while contributing to our biorepository for future research.
Many of the samples we process have been voluntarily donated by individuals suffering from severe diseases, allowing us to investigate the underlying mechanisms of these conditions. Given the priceless nature of these samples, our top priority is to preserve their quality. Any loss or compromise of samples is irreversible, making replacement impossible. Therefore, we require a candidate willing to exercise extreme caution and take any necessary measures for their preservation.
Additionally, the technician will have the opportunity to learn how to use a biobanking laboratory information management system (LIMS) called OpenSpecimen for sample tracking and storage. This skill set will be valuable to add to your repertoire, particularly if you choose to stay in the sciences.
At the CTRC, we operate as a service-oriented laboratory with a core mission of providing laboratory services, support, and expertise to clinical researchers and basic scientists, intending to accelerate their projects. Given the wide array of experimental techniques used within the core, this role provides an opportunity for the technician to enhance their research skills before pursuing further education in graduate studies, medical school, or a career in the biotech industry.
If you are qualified, interested, and passionate about laboratory work, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dynamic and rewarding team at the CTRC.
Responsibilities
- Must work independently with minimal supervision.
- Be able to lift 40lb boxes or equipment.
- Perform literature searches for potentially useful cutting-edge techniques that can be incorporated into our lab to benefit CTRC customers
- Identify key protocols, follow or modify them if necessary, and apply these methods to meet our labs specific needs.
- Performs tests and procedures using sophisticated laboratory equipment.
- Must have skilled hands, be technically precise, and be meticulous with experimental details.
- Because our core facility interacts closely with a large number of investigators, professionalism and excellent customer service are expected.
- Having a good understanding of research ethics is important.
- It is required that this technician can listen and communicate with customers in a friendly, knowledgeable, accurate, and timely manner.
- A high level of quality control is important. Proper labeling, sample identification, and tracking needs to be maintained at 100%.
- Human culture work needs to be performed under sterile conditions, avoiding contamination at all costs.
- Monitors and assists with purchasing laboratory supplies and materials. Must be able to seek out competitive quotes for reagents and supplies to save our customers as much money as possible.
- Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data, and prepares reports summarizing results.
- Summarizes monthly spreadsheets containing billing information.
- Have competent computer skills.
- Identify ways the lab can conserve reagents and supplies, yet be as productive as possible.
This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:Nearly Continuously: Office environment.Often: Infectious disease, oils (
there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (
includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).Seldom: Exposure to animals.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be requiredNearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree in biology, chemistry, or other scientific disciplines in a related field or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; knowledge of complex laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, materials and substances. Skilled in the use of laboratory equipment, ability to create and analyze statistical calculations and prepare reports required; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Special Instructions
Requisition Number: PRN38743B
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Work Schedule Summary: Arranged with Supervisor
Department: 01709 - CCTS - PRECISION MEDICINE
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: 12.02 to 21.63
Close Date:
Open Until Filled: Yes
To apply, visit https://utah.peopleadmin.com/postings/165575
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