Job Description

Job Summary
An undergraduate Laboratory Technician is needed to support ongoing neurosurgery human cell-based research projects.

The ideal candidate performs technical procedures in a research laboratory under minimal supervision by applying standard scientific techniques and analytical principles. Records observations and measurements and reports results. Coordinates the implementation, data management, and completion of research studies while assisting the Principal Investigator and other research team members in determining and accomplishing study objectives. Contributes to statistical analyses, both descriptive and basic analytical statistics. May be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment. May assists with receipt and inspection of raw materials, and ordering and stocking of materials and equipment. The Laboratory Technician will work in collaboration with health care providers, health researchers, and statisticians.

Responsibilities
1) Supports day to day project activities, including sampling preparation of biological material for analysis
- Specifically able to work with solution to (‘dissociation buffers’) dissociate biological material from biopsy instruments.
- Able to work with the Flow Cytometry Core Facility and undertake basic tasks to prepare samples for cell identification and sorting using FACS machines.
- Able to perform safe storage and transfer of cells to other facilities for further analysis.
2) Assists the Principal Investigator and research team in the development of study protocols including IRB paperwork and procedures (new proposals, amendments, continuing reviews, reports).
3) Develops and maintains project specific databases

Essential Functions
1. Confers with senior laboratory personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed in conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
2. Performs tests and procedures using laboratory equipment.
3. Monitors and assists with purchasing of laboratory supplies and materials.
4. Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
5. Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing results.
6. May oversee the operations of student experiments in a laboratory setting.

Problem Solving
This position assists the Principal Investigator in planning methods and techniques. Work requires exercising independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the applicable science. This position may include limited supervision of entry-level laboratory personnel, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. If incumbent cannot find a resolution, the situation is referred to the supervisor and/or Principal Investigator.

Work is performed in accordance with the supervision of senior laboratory personnel and through periodic conferences with superior.


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 required
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other scientific disciplines in a related field or equivalency 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.