Job Description

Job Summary
We are currently immersed in studies involving RNA sequencing and the use of GI secretions to identify food antigens and biomarkers for disease. We are looking for a lab technician to help obtain samples from participants and perform basic laboratory experiments including centrifugation of samples, BCA for total protein, and potential RNA sequencing or cytokine analysis using Luminex technology. We would also expect the technician to keep up participant databases in the studies involving human collections. We envision this role to be truly translational in nature.
The technician will be trained to receive fresh patient biospecimens from the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics and processing them for long-term storage and later utilization. Additional organizational skills to use OpenSpecimen and Lab Biobanking databases to easily organize and maintain samples is desired. The research laboratory technician will also perform technical procedures in a research laboratory under minimal supervision by applying standard scientific techniques and analytical principles. The technician will be responsible for recording samples, observations, measurements and results in an organized fashion. The technician may be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment along with other laboratory colleagues. The technician also may assist with receipt and inspection of materials, ordering and stocking of materials and equipment. Attendance will be expected at lab meetings 1-2 times a week. Supervision will occur by the GI lab specialist, Mark Hazel. If desired, active participation will result in publications dealing with all experiments.
Responsibilities
1. Performs and directs specialized and complex lab tests, experiments and surgical procedures for studies.
2. Assists the Principal Investigator in the design, implementation and performance of new protocols and procedures as well as the modification of existing techniques.
3. Reviews scientific journals, abstracts and other literature for information concerning experimental procedures.
4. Makes advanced statistical calculations, analyzes data and prepares reports summarizing research results.
5. Operates complex and highly specialized laboratory and surgical instruments and equipment. Instructs others in their use.
6. Maintains a log of supplies used in procedures.
7. May supervise, train and review the work of laboratory personnel.
8. May prepare equipment and rooms for studies.
9. May assist with preparing budgets.

Problem Solving
This position assists senior laboratory personnel in planning methods and techniques. Work requires exercising independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the applicable science. This position may include limited supervision of entry-level laboratory personnel, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. If incumbent cannot find a resolution, the situation is referred to the supervisor.
Work is performed in accordance with the supervision of senior laboratory personnel and through periodic conferences with superior.

Comments
This role is a wonderful opportunity for an individual interested in being a part of translational scientific endeavors. This person should be excited by working in a laboratory environment filled with students, post docs and physician-scientists who have an interest in improving the lives of patients with gastrointestinal diseases. Our laboratories have a particular focus on the microbiome and host interactions.
This position will work with and be mentored by Kathryn Peterson MD, MSci who is a faculty gastroenterology physician and Mark Hazel PhD. This enriching experience will provide the technician with in depth exposure to scientific procedures and relevant patient diseases.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office and laboratory environment.
Often: Infectious disease, oils (there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids), hazards (includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals).

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
The staff member must be able to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to provide care appropriate to the age of the patients served on his or her assigned unit. The individual must demonstrate knowledge of the principles of life span growth and development and the ability to assess data regarding the patient’s status and provide care as described in the department’s policies and procedures manual.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry or other scientific discipline or equivalency; two years full-time laboratory experience; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required. Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures as well as the ability to make statistical calculations, analyze results, prepare reports and perform specialized tests also required.

This position is patient-sensitive and must fulfill all associated requirements. We protect our patients, coworkers and community by requiring all patient-sensitive employees to be immunized according to CDC standards and hospital policy. Limited exemptions may be made for documented medical contraindications or religious beliefs that object to vaccinations.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.