What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Technician II - Infectious Disease Diagnostics Laboratory position at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia?
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Day (United States of America)Seeking Breakthrough Makers
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We strongly encourage all candidates of diverse backgrounds and lived experiences to apply.
A Brief Overview
The Infectious Disease Diagnostics Laboratory (IDDL) at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) is dedicated to clinical microbiology innovation and understanding, developing, and applying advanced diagnostics for infectious diseases impacting pediatric health. The Potter Laboratory, an integral part of the IDDL, specializes in next-generation sequencing (NGS) to study the genomics and evolution of bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Our research addresses critical challenges in infectious diseases, including antimicrobial resistance, genomic epidemiology, and the mechanisms underlying pathogen virulence and persistence. Current projects include whole-genome sequencing of Trichophyton species, Aspergillus fumigatus isolates from pediatric cystic fibrosis patients, and prospective sequencing of noroviruses and other pathogens for infection prevention and tracking
We are seeking a highly motivated Research Technician II to join our dynamic team investigating clinical microbiology and infectious disease diagnostics. This role provides a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of clinical and research microbiology, contributing to translational studies with direct implications for patient care. Responsibilities will including performing molecular biology experiments, including PCR, gel electrophoresis, nucleic acid extractions (DNA/RNA isolation), and molecular cloning. Assist in next-generation sequencing workflows, including library preparation for Illumina and Oxford Nanopore platforms. Conduct microbial culture and phenotypic assays for bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Maintain accurate laboratory records, perform routine data entry, and analyze experimental results. Assist in laboratory organization, including reagent preparation, equipment maintenance, and inventory management. Prior bioinformatic experience is a plus.
What you will do
- Performs routine tests / experiments under the direction of principal investigator, supervisor or other designee.
- Performs research procedures on experimental samples as directed
- Records and checks experiments/results for completeness and accuracy
- Performs calculations and maintains appropriate log and lab notebooks
- Performs tasks that may require minimal familiarity with fundamental techniques and lab equipment
- Assists in care of lab equipment
- Sterilizes and cleans glassware, and disposes of specimens, media and other materials using appropriate procedures
- Attends courses, seminars, and lab meetings to expand knowledge of research and laboratory techniques
- Records results, organizes data and maintains lab notebook (physical or electronic) in an organized manner.
- Conducts literary searches as directed.
Education Qualifications
- High School Diploma / GED Required
- Associate's Degree Preferred
- Bachelor's Degree Preferred
Experience Qualifications
- At least one (1) year of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience Required
- At least two (2) years of related classroom experience or successful completion of a technical training program (eg. Wistar, WPSI) and research laboratory experience Preferred
Skills and Abilities
- Basic understanding of lab procedures, protocols, and equipment.
- Strong verbal and written communications skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Solid critical thinking / problem-solving skills
- Solid analytical skills
To carry out its mission, CHOP is committed to supporting the health of our patients, families, workforce, and global community. As a condition of employment, CHOP employees who work in patient care buildings or who have patient facing responsibilities must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and receive an annual influenza vaccine. Learn more.
Employees may request exemptions for valid religious and medical reasons. Start dates may be delayed until candidates are immunized or exemption requests are reviewed.
EEO / VEVRAA Federal Contractor | Tobacco Statement
Children's Hospital of Philadelphia is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability or protected veteran status.
