"Research Lab Specialist Senior/Intermediate"

This position will serve as a Research Laboratory Specialist Senior/Intermediate in the Oncology Clinical Trial Support Unit (O-CTSU) providing biospecimen processing and management support to faculty and research teams for the University of Michigan Rogel Cancer Center - an NCI-Designated Comprehensive Cancer Center and a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). We are among the top-ranked national programs in research and patient care with members holding $120M in annual direct research funding. Our mission is to reduce the cancer burden and improve cancer outcomes through research, innovation, and transdisciplinary collaboration. With the Oncology CTSU, you will join a diverse team of 150 clinical research professionals dedicated in moving this mission forward through cutting-edge early phase trials to practice-changing phase III. As a team member, we will invest in your education, training, career development and certification. We also offer a variety of specialized roles and growth opportunities to fit your desired career path and goals. People want Michigan Answers. Help discover them.

The Clinical Research program at the Rogel Cancer Center seeks a qualified Research Laboratory Specialist (RLS) Senior/Intermediate for its specimen processing and distribution lab located within the Cancer Center. This position will play an essential role in supporting over 100 cancer research studies a year in a fast paced, high-volume environment.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Provides Cancer Center investigators and clinical research support staff with lab support which includes, processing, shipping, and handling of research specimens. Seeking a candidate with experience and education in tissue and molecular biology techniques to assist with development and training for potential expanded services. Takes an active role in oversight of CRSP service excellence and quality. Actively demonstrates a commitment to the University of Michigan's core values to build a culture of respect, integrity, and inclusion within the unit. Answers complex queries regarding sample data. Gains expertise in all areas of sample management and reporting and instructs technicians in established SOPs, lab maintenance, and work aids. Assists in mentorship, management, and delegation of daily tasks, leads process improvement efforts, and establishes new work aids/SOPs. Maintains freezer inventory and batch shipment schedule. Displays integrity in everyday work and meticulously protects PHI. Identifies lab quality issues and communicates with Laboratory Manager for assistance with resolution. Assist with interviews, hiring, firing, promotions, training, and mentoring, SOP/work aid development and revision, and development of expanded services and programs.

Must be able to multitask, have excellent attention to detail and organizational skills in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrated ability to solve problems, think critically, and work independently as well as in a group. Accountability, teamwork, and the highest level of research integrity are essential to success in this position. This position requires the ability to stand for extended time periods. Candidate must be able to lift 50 pounds from the floor and raise 35-pound centrifuge lid continuously throughout the day. Fine motor skills for pipetting, labeling, tissue transfers are vital. Must have the ability and the desire to carefully observe operations and communicate quality improvement within the unit. Flexibility to provide team coverage during normal hours of service required, negotiated as needed. Effective communication skills using both written and spoken English are critical. Bachelor's Degree in a health-related discipline or an equivalent combination of education and experience in chemistry, biology, or a health-related science.

Senior Level:

• Prior experience in mentorship and/or training others.
• Prior experience leading process improvements and/or establishing SOPs.
• 8-10+ years of research lab experience.

Intermediate Level:

• 5-8+ years of research lab experience.

This position may be underfilled at a lower classification depending on the qualifications of the selected candidate.