Research Specialist II

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Job Location (Full Address):

601 Elmwood Ave, Rochester, New York, United States of America, 14642

Opening:

Worker Subtype:

Regular

Time Type:

Full time

Scheduled Weekly Hours:

40

Department:

400059 Medicine M&D-Immuno/Rheum Div

Work Shift:

UR - Day (United States of America)

Range:

UR URG 109

Compensation Range:

$55,955.00 - $78,336.00

Responsibilities:

GENERAL PURPOSE:
The technician will provide direct research and teaching support of moderate complexity and scope in a specialized field, focusing on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of human B cell activation and differentiation. Under the guidance of the PI(s), Research Assistant Professor(s), and staff scientists, the technician will exercise independent technical judgment to direct specialized research projects on autoimmune disease pathogenesis. They will develop, design, and conduct small to moderately complex research projects or experiments in line with the research plan, regularly reviewing progress and evaluating results.

The technician will conduct basic science and clinical research using established protocols for cell purification, storage, culture, flow cytometry, RNA or DNA extraction, histology, ELISA, and quantitative RT-PCR. The role also includes responsibility for the orientation and training of new lab members in experimental techniques, methods, and safety protocols. The technician will assist in regular laboratory maintenance, organization, operations (including ordering supplies), and sample management, while ensuring lab safety, particularly in a BSL-II clinical environment. This position involves participating in lab meetings and seminars, with a focus on both basic and clinical research.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Histology

• Assist with acquiring tissue samples, processing sections, keeping track of and organizing histology samples and QC pipeline including with consortium collaborators with minimal direction.

Flow cytometry

• Plan and execute sample collection, preparation, and flow cytometry following provided protocols. Make recommendations regarding Modifying/revising protocol as needed with Sr. Researcher. Utilize flow cytometry core facility for multi-parameter flow cytometric data collection. Performs moderate to complex analysis and calculation of data; interprets and makes recommendations. Produces data tables and figures for research papers and presentation.
• Plans and performs moderately complex laboratory experiments using cell culture approaches with sterile techniques. Assist with planning and performing genotyping of animal colonies using techniques requiring a high degree of skill and training such as tissue digestion, PCR, gel electrophoresis, cryo-embedding of tissue samples, and fluorescence imaging of histology slides. Communicate with either the PI or Sr. Researcher in the lab the results.

Lab maintenance and equipment

• Responsible for maintaining lab inventories, ordering laboratory supplies, reagent preparation, autoclaving, and general lab upkeep. Ensure compliance with Environmental Health and Safety and Training for Research

Laboratory Personnel

• Assist senior technician in equipment maintenance (including centrifuges, incubators, tissue culture hoods, PCR machines, plate reader, and micropipettes), scheduling meetings, training individuals in use of equipment, and onboarding new lab members.
• Assist in sample processing with other laboratory personnel. Interface with Biological Specimen Inventory System to assist in inventory management
Works closely with Principal Investigator and other research staff to modify or develop new procedures and policies. May monitor a lab budget, working closely with the senior technician and other team members

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree, with major course work in the field of assignment and preferred in Biology, Biochemistry and Immunology required
• Master's degree preferred
• Or equivalent combination of education and experience preferred
• Experience with flow cytometry, sterile cell culture techniques, viral work and protein work is preferred. This individual must be dependable and be willing to work in a team setting.

EOE Minorities / Females / Protected Veterans / Disabled:

The University of Rochester is committed to fostering, cultivating, and preserving a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion to advance the University’s mission to Learn, Discover, Heal, Create – and Make the World Ever Better. In support of our values and those of our society, the University is committed to not discriminating on the basis of age, color, disability, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, military/veteran status, national origin, race, religion/creed, sex, sexual orientation, citizenship status, or any other status protected by law. This commitment extends to the administration of our policies, admissions, employment, access, and recruitment of candidates from underrepresented populations, veterans, and persons with disabilities consistent with these values and government contractor Affirmative Action obligations.