Research Technologist II - Flow Cytometry Core

Overview

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is the largest blood-focused research institute in the United States. With over 30 basic, translational, and clinical researchers, the institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative therapies related to blood and blood disorders. The institute's research interests encompass a wide range of topics, including transfusion medicine, cellular therapy, thrombosis/hemostasis, immunology, and hematologic malignancies. As a vital part of Versiti, a non-profit organization with a blood bank at its core, the VBRI strives to improve lives through innovative research and the development of novel diagnostics and treatments.

VBRI is part of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Campus, a rapidly growing clinical-translational research hub. VBRI’s proximity to the Medical College of Wisconsin, Childrens’ Hospital of Wisconsin, and Froedtert Hospital facilitates seamless interdisciplinary collaborations. A range of exemplary core facilities support highly competitive research. In the summer of 2024, construction of a new research building will start, doubling existing VBRI research space to enable the recruitment of 10-15 new faculty. With its renowned researchers, strategic expansion plans and location in a highly collaborative environment, the VBRI is poised to maintain and expand its position as one of the leading hematology institutes in the world.

Position Summary

The Flow Cytometry Core Lab, part of the VBRI Shared Resources, provides and maintains advanced scientific equipment for campus research labs. This fast-paced instrumentation lab supports the analysis of diverse experimental designs across immunology, cancer biology, stem cell and blood sciences, neuroscience, and many other disciplines.

As a Research Technologist in the Flow Core, you will assist with daily lab operations including instrument startup and calibration, cell sorting experiments, assay optimization, and troubleshooting. You will also participate in educational activities relevant to the lab, such as scientific seminars, learning workshops, and conferences. You will work alongside the operations coordinator and cytometry specialist, with hours aligning with standard business schedules (M-F, 7:00am-3:30pm or 10:00am-6:30pm as needed).

The ideal candidate will have a background in cell biology or a related field, experience in basic or clinical research, strong time management and attention to detail, and excellent interpersonal communication skills. Flow cytometry experience is required for consideration at a higher job level.

Total Rewards Package

BenefitsVersiti provides a comprehensive benefits package based on your job classification. Full-time regular employes are eligible for Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans, Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays, Short- and Long-term disability, life insurance, 7% match dollar for dollar 401(k), voluntary programs, discount programs, others.

Responsibilities

• Works with Principal Investigator to plan, structure, and execute research experiments
• Troubleshoots assays and customizes experimental tools to answer research questions.
• Coordinates external and internal resources necessary for completion of research plan.
• May provide direction to laboratory group and trainees.
• Generates clear and complete records of experimental work.
• Participates in publication and presentation of research.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned to technically support scientific projects in the lab and other tasks that are assigned by Principal Investigator
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification
• Understands and performs in accordance with all applicable regulatory and compliance requirements
• Complies with all standard operating policies and procedures

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university in biology, chemistry or equivalent scientific discipline required
• Master's Degree preferred

Experience

• 1-3 years relevant research or medical laboratory experience beyond receipt of degree. required
• 4-6 years relevant research or medical laboratory experience beyond receipt of degree preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Demonstrated knowledge of theoretical basis of work being performed required
• Ability to perform research procedures independently required
• Demonstrated ability in research laboratory techniques required
• Strong detail orientation and analytical ability required
• Excellent problem solving skills required
• Ability to prioritize and execute multiple tasks and meet deadlines effectively required
• Effective organizational and communication skills required

Tools and Technology

• Specialized research equipment required
• Personal computer required

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