Research Support Specialist
About The Position
Under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI) and in coordination with the lab manager, this role involves performing routine and semi-skilled tasks to support and directly assist in the updating and validation of a collection database. The incumbent will be responsible for reviewing datasheets, combining data using unique IDs, preparing data for online accessibility, and accurately identifying and distinguishing between sample and individual unique identifiers. This role requires meticulous recording of variables related to samples, individuals, traits, locations, and environmental parameters, ensuring proper data formats for each specimen. The specialist will link disparate data by analyzing environmental, biological, and sampling interactions to create comprehensive descriptors for each specimen. Additionally, the role includes inspecting post-processed datasets for accuracy, validating records against specimens and freezer locations, and supporting the relabeling of specimens. Participation in weekly lab meetings and other assigned duties are also part of the role.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree (foreign equivalent or higher) in Biological or Forensic Sciences.
- Technical knowledge as evidenced by emphasis of coursework in directly related areas such as organismal biology, pathology, or forensic sciences.
- Knowledge of biological science laboratory procedures.
- Experience following specific laboratory protocols.
- Outstanding written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Experience successfully working independently as well as part of a team with a collaborative approach to problem solving.
- Strong organizational and time management skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in a laboratory environment handling preserved specimens.
- Experience with data manipulation and software applications, including database software and/or Excel.
- Experience with collections-based research or supporting such research.
- Experience with field research in the biological or biomedical sciences.
Responsibilities
- Perform routine and semi-skilled tasks to support and directly assist updating and validation of the collection database.
- Review datasheets that compile organismal, sample, and collection data.
- Combine data using unique IDs and prepare them for online accessible databasing.
- Accurately identify and distinguish between sample and individual unique identifiers.
- Record variables for sample, individual, individual traits, location, or other environmental parameters, using proper data formats to individually describe each dataset for the corresponding specimen.
- Link disparate data together by determining the environmental, biological, and sampling interactions that took place, creating a comprehensive set of descriptors associated with the specimen.
- Convert data into formats compatible with software specifications for internal lab collections.
- Inspect post-processed linked datasets to verify that all variables are correctly referenced to the specimen based.
- Inventory samples in relation to existing records to validate whether records are accurate to ensure data matches specimens and freezer locations.
- Support relabeling of the specimens to ensure accurate match between items in the collection and associated data sets.
- Participate in weekly lab meetings.
- Perform other duties or projects as assigned as appropriate to rank and departmental mission.
Benefits
- Eligible for the overtime provisions of the FLSA.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
