We have launched a comprehensive Biobank for patients who visit our gastroenterology and GI surgery clinics, procedures, and operating rooms to advance the field’s understanding and improve the care for patients with gastrointestinal diseases with particular emphasis on the microbiome and immunology. This position is a part of the growing Microbiota and Gastrointestinal Immunology Consortia (MAGIC) initiative at the University of Utah. For this exciting endeavor, we are looking for a lab technician to help build and maintain the biobank, as well as perform basic laboratory experiments including potentially handling of mice using samples collected for the biobank. We envision this role to be truly translational, obtaining patient biospecimens and asking clinically and scientifically relevant questions to better our understanding of health and disease.
Maintenance of the biobank includes receiving fresh patient biospecimens from the University of Utah Hospitals and Clinics during scheduled patient appointments and processing them for long-term storage and later utilization. This role will work under the supervision of our senior research coordinators and liver physicians for supervision, support, and guidance.
Our laboratory uses a sophisticated biobank system called OpenSpecimen to easily organize and maintain samples and Redcap to survey patients. 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.
Responsibilities
- Confers with senior personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed in conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
- Maintain records for research coordination.
- Maintains records of the MAGIC biobank.
- Performs tests and procedures using laboratory equipment.
- Monitors and assists with purchasing of laboratory supplies and materials.
- Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
- Makes statistical calculations, analyzes data, and prepares reports summarizing results.
- Quality improvement of workflows, documentation of workflow, organization.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other scientific disciplines in a related field or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; knowledge of complex laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, materials, and substances. Skilled in the use of laboratory equipment, ability to create and analyze statistical calculations and prepare reports required; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.
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.
Work Environment and Physical Requirements
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).
Occasionally: Exposure to animals.
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
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.
Comments
This position assists senior Biobank personnel in planning methods and techniques. Work requires exercising independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the applicable science, professionalism, and organization. This position may include limited supervision of entry-level laboratory personnel or research coordinator, who may refer sensitive or unusual situations to the incumbent. If the incumbent cannot find a resolution, the situation is referred to the supervisor.
Required Documents
- Resume
- Cover Letter (optional)
- Addendum to the University of Utah - Veteran Only - Call 801.581.2169 after submission
- Appropriate discharge document (such as a DD-214 – Member Copy 4) – Veteran Only – Call 801.581.2169
University Human Resource Management
250 East 200 South, Suite 125 Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Contact us: (801) 581-2169 By Email: employment@utah.edu
#J-18808-Ljbffr
