Lab Technician (18234)
American University
Washington, DC
Job posting number: #7118129
Posted: December 14, 2022
Application Deadline: Open Until Filled
Job Description
Get to Know American UniversityAt American University we value open and honest inquiry, servant leadership, and the affirmation of the human dignity of all. We envision a thriving AU community where individuals of all identities and experiences are understood, appreciated, and fully included, and where equitable treatment, opportunities, and outcomes prevail.
Our diverse community of students, faculty, and staff represent every state and more than 150 countries. Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. Our staff are innovative, service-oriented, and dedicated to moving the university towards achieving its strategic goals. We are committed to an excellent experience for all of our students, faculty and staff and share a passion for creating change through our knowledge and our work.
Learn more about American University by clicking here.
Summary/Objective
This position will be for a research technician to maintain lab stocks and reagents, to cultivate nematodes and perform microinjection to generate transgenic organisms. In addition they will perform molecular biology cloning and examination of growth patterns under different temperatures.
Essential Functions
Performing Microinjection to generate transgenic organisms: Use a fine platinum wire to capture move individual worms onto an agar pad on a slide. Inject DNA into the animals using a microinjector in the laboratory
Research Materials Preparation: Culture nematodes in the laboratory on agar plates. Prepare DNA for microinjection.
Molecular Biology cloning: Grow bacteria containing DNA called plasmids. Extract plasmids and cut with molecular scissors known as restriction enzymes. Repair the cut DNA using a custom-prepared piece of DNA to make a new plasmid.
Observing Research Experiments: Examine growth patterns under different temperatures. Study the growth of the nematodes using cultivation at different temperatures and for varying lengths of time.
Maintain lab stocks and reagents: Maintain an accurate record of standard laboratory stocks and facilitate orders to replenish as needed. Pour agar plates and make buffer solutions commonly used by student researchers as necessary.
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
Full Time, 35 hours/week.
2.2 Specialist A.
Non-Exempt.
Salary Range
$38,706.00 - $40,000.00/year.
Required Education and Experience
High School Diploma.
Strong writing skills and a demonstrated ability to understand and communicate basic mathematical and statistical information.
Experience with computational genomics or programming.
Preferred Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Biology (or closely related field) or equivalent education, training and experience.
1 year experience with molecular biology.
KSA Statement.
Experience with conducting cellular injection.
Additional Eligibility Qualifications
Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
To ensure the health and safety of our community AU requires COVID-19 vaccinations for faculty and staff. Click here to learn more about our health and safety directive.
Others
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Benefits
AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.
Union Eligibility
This position is part of a collective bargaining unit represented by SEIU Local 500. That means the terms and conditions of your employment are governed by university policy (including the Staff Personnel Policies Manual) and any collective bargaining agreement entered into between American University and SEIU Local 500.