Research Lab Tech I (Vavvas)

Education
Bachelor's Degree Related Field of Study required

Can this role accept experience in lieu of a degree?
Yes

Licenses and Credentials

Experience
Prior laboratory experience, either through academic coursework, internships, or employment 1-2 years preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures.
- Familiarity with common laboratory equipment and instruments used in research experiments.
- Proficiency in data collection, analysis, and scientific software tools.
- Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively convey experimental procedures, results, and challenges.

POSITION SUMMARY:

Performs routine laboratory tests and procedures as directed, with supervision.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Prepare samples, reagents, media, and buffers; label and store specimens according to protocols and safety regulations.
• Set up, operate, and maintain laboratory equipment (e.g., microscopes, centrifuges, incubators, autoclaves, plate readers), including basic troubleshooting and calibration.
• Perform routine experiments and assays (such as ELISA, PCR, cell or tissue culture, biochemical and molecular tests) following established SOPs.
• Collect, record, and organize experimental data in lab notebooks or electronic systems, generating basic summaries or reports as needed.
• Maintain lab organization by managing inventory, ordering supplies, and keeping workspaces clean and compliant with safety standards.
• Follow biosafety, chemical safety, and waste-disposal procedures; use appropriate PPE and report any incidents or equipment problems.
• Manage a small laboratory animal colony (e.g., mouse and rabbit), including setting up and monitoring breeding pairs, tracking pregnancies, and scheduling weaning to meet experimental needs.
• Maintain accurate colony records (pedigrees, genotypes, births, deaths, experimental use) in electronic or paper databases to ensure regulatory compliance and experimental reproducibility.
• Assist with basic technical procedures such as restraint, handling, tail biopsies for genotyping, and tissue collection, following IACUC-approved protocols and the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement)
• Collaborate with and support principal investigators, postdocs, and students by preparing materials, assisting with experiments, and occasionally helping optimize protocols under supervision.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

1. Work requires a bachelors' degree, or equivalent combination or education and experience. Requires intermediate math skills and ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry; apply common sense understanding to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagram form; .deal with problems involving several concrete variables in standardized situations; read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals; write routine reports and correspondence; and speak effectively before groups of employees.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Potential Exposure to Blood Borne Pathogens. Job may require performance of tasks that involve potential for exposure to blood, body fluids, or tissues.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Requires clear vision at 20 inches or less and depth perception. Work requires some lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 50 pounds.