Lab Technician I, Immunobiology and Microbial Pathogenesis Laboratory, Dr. Hollern

The Lab Technician I position is responsible for, with limited instruction for routine work, performing various cell and molecular biology and data handling techniques; library prep,  mouse handling and colony maintenance, minor mouse surgeries, mouse breeding and weaning, genotyping, flow cytometry and cell sorting, ELISA, RNA expression analysis in support of the Principal Investigator (PI) and lab research goals. Range of duties include, but is not limited to, data analysis and data base management, maintenance of tissue, DNA, and other experimental samples, assisting with general laboratory maintenance, including equipment maintenance, and ordering of supplies, and training of new personnel. Duties also include establishing and performing research and analysis on projects that involve the study of human and murine B cells.  May provide task instruction, training, and guidance to lower level personnel.  Carries out and analyzes experimental results with instruction from the PI.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

(50%) Molecular, Cell Biology, and Biochemistry Techniques

• Library prep for various omics platforms.
• Plasmid assembly and protein purification.
• Cloning.
• Handling of tumor specimens in human and murine models.
• Perform various techniques in molecular biology such as: RNA extraction and analysis.
• Gene expression analysis.

(25%) Mouse Colony Handling and Maintenance

• Perform tumor studies in mice which include, but are not limited to, xenograft of tumor cell lines and injection of oncogenic lentivirus
• Manage and/or perform maintenance of mouse colony including monitoring and measuring of tumors

(25%) Lab Support

• Maintain lab databases.
• Prepare standard media and solutions.
• Perform weekly inventory of lab supplies.
• Stock and organize incoming lab supplies.
• Clean glassware and equipment as needed.
• Assist in Hazardous, Biohazardous, and Radioisotope waste disposal.
• Assist in maintaining laboratory safety records.
• Attend staff meetings and assist with general problem-solving.

EXPERIENCE

Required:

• Demonstrated experience and application of molecular biology knowledge preferably in biochemistry and cell culture.

• Demonstrated experience with general lab maintenance, including cleaning, stocking supply inventory, and ensuring the maintenance of a sterile environment.

Preferred:

• Flow cytometry, western blot, ELISA, and immunoprecipitation experience.
• Knowledge/Familiarity with the following gained through academic experience:
  • Experience working on a UNIX-like operating system in a high-performance computing environment
  • Programming experience in Bash, Python and R
  • Familiarity with Illumina sequencing technology and RNA-seq

EDUCATION

Required:

• High school diploma

Preferred:

• Undergraduate coursework in biology and/or genetics

• Undergraduate coursework in computer science or equivalent work experience

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Required:

• Theoretical and hands on knowledge of tissue culture and molecular biology techniques.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in researching information and analyzing data to arrive at valid conclusions.
• Ability to learn and carry out new experimental procedures with accuracy and efficiency. Demonstrated ability to follow verbal and/or written protocols, including follow-up on previously begun procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to record data accurately and enter into appropriate medium.
• Skill in the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with both PC and MAC operating systems, standard business office equipment and commonly used software and tools, such as Microsoft Office, electronic mail, and the internet.
• Proficiency with common office software applications as well as software applications used for research, recording, and analysis.
• Highly organized, effective at multitasking, adept at juggling changing priorities
• Proven ability to work both independently and also as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including tact, diplomacy, and flexibility.
• Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with diverse groups. Demonstrated skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with personnel at all levels.

Preferred:

• Flow cytometry, western blot, ELISA, and immunoprecipitation experience.
• Knowledge/Familiarity with the following gained through academic experience:
  • Experience working on a UNIX-like operating system in a high-performance computing environment
  • Programming experience in Bash, Python and R
  • Familiarity with Illumina sequencing technology and RNA-seq

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

• Must be willing to work in an animal-related research environment.
• Satisfactory completion of the Institute's background investigation.
• Must be willing to work independently and must have a flexible schedule to support research needs.
• Successful completion of the Institute's background investigation.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/MENTAL ACTIVITIES/ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The incumbent in this position will be constantly adjusting focus. grasping, hearing, keying, seeing, sitting, talking, analyzing, calculating. communicating, reading, reasoning, writing, working in confined areas, and working indoors.