Research Lab Technician I, Microbiology-Immunology

Overview

JOB SUMMARY

Under direct supervision from a higher level technician or a principal investigator, the research lab tech I assists in the performance of a variety of standardized physical, chemical, or biological tests.  Procedures and techniques are outlined in detail with the employee exercising limited discretion and independent judgment in completing assigned tasks.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Associate's degree in Biotechnology or related scientific field of study; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience.

SKILLS/QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to listen and communicate effectively
• Basic computer skills
• Knowledge of medical terminology to interact with medical staff regarding laboratory procedures and results
• Knowledge of medical equipment and instruments
• Knowledge of common safety hazards and universal precautions to establish a safe work environment.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Conducts standardized chemical and physical tests on experimental or clinical materials/specimens.
2. Operates a balance and other standard laboratory equipment for mixing, weighing, and preparing specimens for clinical/experimental analysis.
3. Makes minor adjustments to correctly calibrate various types of physical testing and electronic equipment.
4. Assists higher-level technicians in making microanalysis, tepids analysis, enzyme studies, radioactive studies, and chromatographic studies on various types of tissues, secretions, and excretions.
5. Assists with experiments using animals by restraining them for inoculation and anesthetization; performs routine handling and treatment; sets up monitoring equipment.
6. Feeds animals in accordance with prescribed simple diets.
7. Cleans and sterilizes delicate glassware and equipment and maintains premises in sanitary
   condition.
8. Performs other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Research laboratory environment
• Frequent exposure to diseases, medicinal preparations and other conditions common in a lab environment
• Must wear protective equipment (gloves, gowns/lab coats, eye protection, face protection)
• Exposure to glass and other breakable objects
• Exposure to animals