"Laboratory Technician III"

Position Purpose

To help manage the lab and conduct a variety of experiments in support of research studies on brain development and behavior using the zebrafish model. The position will involve general lab duties, preparing constructs, and recovering and applying transgenic tools.

Description

The ideal candidate will be familiar with genetics and neurobiology and have experience with molecular and cell biology techniques, including cloning and PCR, transcriptomics, image analysis, and/or microscopy. We seek a creative and motivated scientist who works well independently and as part of a team. This position will entail independent research, zebrafish husbandry, and technical training of lab members.

Required Qualifications - Education and Yrs Exp

Bachelors plus 1-2 year(s) of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Required Qualifications - Skills, Knowledge and Abilities

• Competence in laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques as well as equipment and instruments (e.g., gel electrophoresis, cloning, PCR, microscopes).
• Reliable and self-motivated.
• Ability to follow directions and work independently with good judgment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Willingness to work with/be exposed to hazardous chemicals.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of computers and software applications.
• At least one year of relevant laboratory or research experience.
• Some expertise in molecular biology is desirable.

Detailed Responsibilities

Laboratory/Research Support (30%)

• Accomplishes day-to-day care and housekeeping of laboratory, including maintaining clean and organized working environment.
• Orders laboratory supplies, prepares reagents and solutions as needed.
• Monitors laboratory equipment and instrument performance; obtains maintenance and repair as necessary.
• Maintains computerized records or detailed notes associated with laboratory activities and sends requested reagents to other researchers.
• Instructs others in laboratory methods, procedures, and techniques and provides technical guidance and direction as required.
• Upon training, performs animal husbandry duties specific to the zebrafish system.

Experiments/Independent Projects (30%)

• Conducts specified laboratory experiments using a range of established molecular biology and genetic methods, procedures, and techniques (e.g., generation of constructs and transgenic lines, CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing, PCR, etc.).
• Monitors experiments while in progress; records observations.
• Reconciles results that are disparate from anticipated findings; trouble-shoots and re-runs experiments as necessary.
• Collects and analyzes data resulting from experiments and discusses findings with Principal Investigator as well as potential problems associated with experiments, measurements, or analyses and suggests changes as appropriate.
• Adheres to laboratory safety requirements including general and chemical/hazardous waste safety disposal methods.

Zebrafish Husbandry and Maintenance (30%)

• Handles and cares for zebrafish, including collecting tissue, breeding, collecting embryos, washing tanks.
• Uses PCR and molecular cloning methods to identify mutations in zebrafish lines and maintain zebrafish stocks.
• May assist Aquatics Facility staff with feeding and facility maintenance as needed.

Records (10%)

• Maintains laboratory notebook to record tasks performed.
• Contributes to the preparation of scientific manuscripts where appropriate (providing data such as graphs, charts, tables, statistical summaries, etc.).
• Oversees entries into lab databases.
• Conducts literature searches to develop insights into the significance of experimental results and to acquire information on new or improved methods, procedures, and techniques.

Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness through actions, interactions, and communications with others. Performs other duties as assigned.