Research Lab Technician work involves basic research in immunology and virology to address key questions relating to control and regulation of oncogenic virus infection. The successful applicant will have the opportunity to perform laboratory research using innovative techniques.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Communicates problems or matters of a scientific, technical and/or administrative nature within the department and interdepartmentally utilizing computer technology 
• Conducts research and assists in the conduct of research 
• Analyzes data and interprets results to write reports and summaries of findings 
• Maintains accurate records of tests conducted, results, data and patients tested including calculation of results from supplied data, obtained data and statistics for quality assurance 
• Maintains equipment and inventory through making minor adjustments, performing scheduled maintenance, and troubleshooting major problems utilizing departmental resources and manufacturers telephone trouble lines 
• Organizes and prioritizes work to meet specific goals and accomplishments 
• Maintains clean and efficient work area and replenishes supplies as necessary  
• Helps manage the animal colony and is comfortable isolating samples from euthanized mice 
• Helps prep for experiments 
• Helps maintain cell cultures 
• Helps maintain the labs cleanliness and safety 
• Various assays including one or more of the following: 
  • Immunoflorescent staining 
  • Staining and running samples for flow cytometry 
  • ELISPOT 
  • ELISA 
  • RNA isolation/RT-PCR  
  • Protein extraction/Western blotting 
  • Genotyping 
  • Sensitive Viral Assays 

• Preparation of stock solutions and reagents 
• Testing of serum and complement 
• Maintenance of laboratory equipment 
• Inventory 
• Availability to work occasional overtime on weekends or evenings to complete time sensitive projects 
• Acquires knowledge for new technology and policy/procedure revisions 
• All other duties as assigned 

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:   

• B.S. or B.A. degree, preferably in Biology, Chemistry, Molecular Biology, or a related field.
• One or more years’ experience in a research lab preferred.
• Desirable but not required skills include experience with any or all of: sterile tissue culture, flow cytometric analysis, RNA and protein extraction, vertical and horizontal gel electrophoresis, protein immunoprecipitation, Western blotting, polymerase chain reaction, ELISAs, molecular cloning, mouse handling, mouse genotyping and work with infectious agents. 

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:   

• Demonstrates the ability to recognize priorities in organization of work flow.  
• Able to perform duties independently, with a minimal need for direct supervision.