Laboratory Aide I

Job Summary

The Steele Center for Translational Medicine (SCTM) aims to identify therapeutic targets for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and its newest initiative, glaucoma, two leading causes of visual impairment worldwide. The SCTM is comprised of an interdisciplinary team of basic and applied researchers, clinicians, clinical staff, and national/international collaborators. Our scientific efforts center around unique resources, including a collection of over 8,000 pairs of donated human eyes - complete with full genetic profiles, images, and ophthalmic and medical histories - and a large study cohort of AMD and glaucoma patients. This research aims to help better understand genotype-directed disease mechanisms, identify causal pathways and targets, and develop novel therapies to halt blinding eye diseases.

Performs non-technical procedures in a research laboratory and maintains laboratory facilities, equipment and records.

Responsibilities

Essential Functions:

• File and maintain research records and logs of research data.
• Knowledge of laboratory equipment usage and maintenance.
• Bloodborne pathogen exposure prevention.
• Knowledge of ocular structure and pathology, specifically as it relates to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma. This will be taught to candidates once hired.
• Availability to perform on-call functions. These functions include:
  • Maintains the physical environment of the lab.
  • Collect human donor eyes and related tissue and blood specimens and process them according to research protocol.

The incumbent follows well-established laboratory procedures to complete work. Sensitive or unusual situations are referred to the supervisor. Work is performed under the close supervision of senior laboratory personnel. Work is frequently reviewed for accuracy and to ensure adherence to research protocols.

This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office 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).
Seldom: Exposure to animals.

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.

Minimum Qualifications

EQUIVALENCY STATEMENT: 1 year of higher education can be substituted for 1 year of directly related work experience (Example: bachelor's degree = 4 years of directly related work experience).
Laboratory Aide, I: Requires little to no related experience.

Preferences

Would prefer, but not required, to have a work history in a research lab.

This is an entry level position and on the job training is provided. The ability to understand and carry out verbal and written instructions; the ability to keep accurate records; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills required.

A general knowledge of laboratory procedures, equipment and terminology; the ability to operate and care for laboratory equipment; and a knowledge of appropriate specimen handling techniques preferred.

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

Special Instructions

Requisition Number: PRN16755N
Full Time or Part Time? Part Time
Work Schedule Summary: Schedule -1-3 nights per week and weekend shifts depending on schedule need, and at least 1-2 shifts of daytime work for data entry or special projects as needed.
Department: 00870 - Ophthalmology-Research
Location: Campus
Pay Rate Range: $12.50
Close Date: 2/27/2026