Research Technician

University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences•Little Rock, AR

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Research Technician provides support for research projects within the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. The Research Technician will be punctual and honest, and perform general and more specific laboratory tasks, including: cleaning and sterilization of laboratory materials, general laboratory cleaning, preparation of cell culture media and chemical solutions using appropriate aseptic techniques, maintenance of lab equipment (including water baths, incubators, etc.), performance of basic molecular biology (in vitro cell culture, molecular cloning, virus production and titering, Western blots, etc.) and next generation sequencing techniques (custom library preparation), maintenance of chemical inventories, inventory of reagents, and data entry. Specifically, this position requires 100% effort towards research projects.

Requirements

High school diploma/GED required.
Candidate must be willing to work with, handle, and perform experiments involving viruses and mammalian cell culture.
Candidate should have a basic knowledge of the equipment used in a research laboratory and be capable of formulating and making stocks of media and other chemical reagents.
Ability to keep organized records and notes is required.
Must be able to move and clean laboratory equipment.
Must be able to lift 20 lbs.
This position will include: bending, standing, sitting for long periods in a biosafety cabinet, and repetitive movement.
Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in sterile culturing techniques is preferable.
Bachelor's degree from a 4-year college or university with coursework in biology, chemistry, or biochemistry.
Two (2) years of laboratory experience.
Prior experience working with cell culture and DNA cloning is a plus.
Candidate should be proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Responsibilities

Perform general and specific laboratory tasks.
Order laboratory supplies (obtaining quotes, filling and submitting ordering forms, tracking order status, and receiving orders), as well as restocking the laboratory, and maintaining records of laboratory inventories (reagents and supplies).
Oversee staff compliance with the University, State, and Federal guidelines for the safe operation of the laboratory.
Perform or assist with experiments that provide direct data contribution to ongoing research efforts, including cloning of DNA constructs, preparation of next-generation sequencing library, genetic manipulation of cell lines, etc.
The candidate may also be asked to train new laboratory personnel in these techniques.
Perform general cleaning and sterilization of laboratory materials, including glassware and plastics, and maintenance of laboratory equipment (incubators, water bath, tissue culture hoods, microscope, liquid nitrogen tank, etc.).
Perform other duties as assigned.