Job Description

Job Summary
Performs technical procedures in a research laboratory under minimal supervision by applying standard scientific techniques and analytical principles.
Responsibilities
Experiments
Conducts experiments by applying established methods and procedures.
Sets up and assists with research protocols and experiments under the general guidance of the principal investigator and other senior investigators in the laboratory; may have primary responsibility for independently setting up, performing and trouble shooting less complex experiments.
Observes experimental results in progress and maintains written records of activities and observations; applies past experience and precedents to identify and troubleshoot problems.
Anticipates unexpected findings and assists in trouble-shoots techniques.
Reconciles results that are disparate from anticipated findings; re-runs techniques as necessary. Reports experimental results to the principal investigator and other senior laboratory personnel and assists in their analysis
Collaborates with the Principal Investigator in investigating and developing modifications to techniques and documents all new techniques developed in the laboratory.
Adheres to laboratory safety requirements including general and chemical/hazardous waste safety disposal methods.

% Time: 50

Records
Collects and analyzes data resulting from experimentation/testing.
Summarizes results and prepares progress reports for oral presentation at laboratory meetings. Prepares appropriate and understandable representations of data such as graphs, charts, tables, statistical summaries, etc.
Contributes to the preparation of scientific manuscripts by drafting portions of the text, preparing graphs, tables, and charts, etc.
Conducts literature searches to assist in establishing new laboratory techniques;

% Time: 20

Laboratory
Accomplishes day-to-day care and housekeeping of laboratory.
Assess the need for and orders all supplies and reagents needed for experiments.
Assists in the maintenance of laboratory equipment and safety records, and in the preparation of routine reagents.
Monitors laboratory equipment and instrument performance; obtains maintenance and repair as necessary.
Maintains computerized records associated with laboratory activities.
Instructs others in laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques and provides technical guidance and direction as required.

% Time: 30

Miscellaneous
Communicates respectfully with a diverse community.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s 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
· Recent graduates with Bachelor’s degree with a major in one of the Biological Sciences or the equivalent.
· At least one year of relevant laboratory/ research experience.
· Competence in several laboratory methods, procedures and techniques as well as the equipment and instruments,
· Ability to work independently and apply critical thinking and sound judgment
· Good organizational and time management skills.
· Willingness to work with/be exposed to hazardous materials such as radioactive materials, infectious materials, and/or hazardous chemicals.
· Knowledge of standard computer software packages for data analysis and presentation, and on-line literature search engines.