Senior Research Technician - Pediatrics Gastroenterology

Location SAINT LOUIS, MO 63110 Scheduled Hours 40

Position Summary

Applications are invited for a Senior Research Technician in the Holtz laboratory. Our lab integrates molecular biology, microbiology, virology, epidemiology, metagenomic sequencing and bioinformatics to address questions in the developing childhood gut. A major project in the lab is a translational study focused on understanding how environmental exposures impact the development of the infant gut virome and bacterial microbiome. This position independently performs complex research studies, experiments and assays.

• Performs complex analysis/projects according to research protocols, explaining methods and procedures to other technicians.
• Provides data entry and current data files on research projects.
• Monitors data to ensure consistent quality.
• Assures compliance with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Ensures lab conditions and equipment are properly cleaned and maintained in accordance with established procedures.
• Performs molecular biology experiments including PCR/qPCR/RT-PCR, DNA and RNA purification, and sequencing library construction.
• Performs bacterial culturing.
• Performs literary searches related to research project.
• Learns new techniques as needed.
• Participates in developing hypotheses to be tested and methods for testing them.
• Solves practical problems relating to difficulties with equipment.
• Suggests technical or procedural improvements in testing methods.
• Manages thousands of stored human samples.
• Assists in the training and development of technicians, acting as a group leader.
• May perform preliminary statistical analysis of data.
• Orders lab supplies and equipment.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by the personnel so classified.

Management reserves the right to revise or amend duties at any time.

• Education:
  
  Master’s degree or combination of education and/or experience may substitute for minimum education.
• Certifications/Professional Licenses:
  No specific certification/professional license is required for this position.
• Work Experience:
  
  Laboratory Setting (1 Year)
• Skills:
  
  Not Applicable
• Driver's License: A driver's license is not required for this position.

WashU seeks highly motivated individuals who are able to perform duties in a manner consistent with our core mission and guiding principles.

• Education:
  
  No additional education unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Certifications/Professional Licenses:
  No additional certification/professional licenses unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Work Experience:
  
  No additional work experience unless stated elsewhere in the job posting.
• Skills:
  
  Communication, Computer Software, Laboratory Instrumentation, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Multitasking, Recordkeeping, Reporting Management, Software Program, Sterilization Techniques, Working Independently

The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for…