Research Technician II
About The Position
The Research Technician II is an entry-level research technical role that participates in planned research projects by performing research protocols, experimental procedures, and other laboratory tasks under direct supervision. The role may occasionally involve minimal discretion and judgment in executing and interpreting experiments and the resulting data. The Sengupta Laboratory at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia studies how circadian rhythms regulate lung inflammation, injury, and repair. Its research examines how biological clocks influence immune responses to respiratory infections, tissue regeneration, and long-term pulmonary health, using molecular and cellular biology, immunology, genetics, and experimental models of lung injury. The technician will contribute to this collaborative research program at the intersection of circadian biology, immunology, and pulmonary medicine. Research staff are integral members of the scientific team. Depending on interests, experience, and demonstrated proficiency, the employee may have opportunities to take ownership of research projects, participate in experimental planning and interpretation, present findings at scientific meetings, and contribute to peer-reviewed publications. CHOP and the University of Pennsylvania research environment provides access to seminars, workshops, and interactions with investigators across disciplines. Early-career applicants are encouraged to commit approximately two years to support meaningful engagement with research projects and professional development.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least one year of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (e.g., Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience.
- Intermediate understanding of laboratory procedures, protocols, and equipment.
- Basic exposure to laboratory-specific experiments, techniques, and scientific analysis.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Excellent organizational skills.
- Solid critical-thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Solid analytical skills.
Nice To Haves
- Associate's degree.
- Bachelor's degree.
- At least two years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (e.g., Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience.
Responsibilities
- Perform molecular and cellular biology techniques, including flow cytometry, RNA isolation, qPCR, protein isolation, and Western blotting.
- Maintain genetically modified mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and associated regulatory documentation.
- Participate in animal experiments investigating respiratory infections, inflammation, and lung repair, including microscopy and image analyses.
- Learn and apply specialized techniques such as cell sorting, organoid assays, viral titration, and advanced immunophenotyping.
- Contribute to experimental design, data analysis, and scientific discussions.
- Train and supervise undergraduate students in the lab.
- Participate in joint lab meetings and seminar series with immunology, pulmonology, and circadian biology groups on campus.
- Perform routine tests and experiments under the direction of the principal investigator, supervisor, or other designee.
- Perform research procedures on experimental samples as directed.
- Record and check experiments and results for completeness and accuracy.
- Perform calculations and maintain appropriate logs and lab notebooks.
- Perform tasks requiring familiarity with fundamental techniques and laboratory equipment.
- May assist with planning specific research protocols and procedures.
- Maintain office and laboratory areas, solutions, reagents, supplies, and equipment; dispose of specimens, media, and other materials using appropriate procedures.
- Assist with care and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
- May coordinate schedules of tests and procedures.
- Attend courses, seminars, and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory techniques.
- Organize and record results and maintain lab notebooks.
- Compile and help analyze data; prepare charts, graphs, and study results as directed.
- Conduct literary searches as directed.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
