Lab Specialist

About the role

Performs advanced laboratory techniques and procedures in a research laboratory. May provide veterinary technical support for animal model studies.

Responsibilities

• Performs and/or directs the performance of standard and complex lab tests, experiments, and/or surgical procedures for studies.
• Assists the Principal Investigator in the design, implementation, and performance of new protocols and procedures, as well as the modification of existing techniques.
• Reviews scientific journals, abstracts, and other literature for information concerning experimental procedures.
• Makes advanced statistical calculations, analyzes data, and prepares reports summarizing research results.
• Operates complex and highly specialized laboratory and surgical instruments and equipment; instructs others in their use.
• Maintains a log of supplies used in procedures.
• May supervise, train, and review the work of laboratory personnel.
• May prepare equipment and rooms for studies and assist with preparing budgets.
• Assists in the development of research protocols and designs; modifies and implements procedures.
• Records and interprets research results.
• Works independently under general supervision of senior laboratory personnel; may train and supervise other laboratory personnel.

Work Environment

• Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
• Often: Infectious disease, oils (air or skin exposure to oils or cutting fluids), hazards (proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding or high places, or exposure to chemicals).
• Seldom: Exposure to animals.

Physical Requirements

• Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
• Often: Repetitive hand motion (e.g., typing), walking, standing, sitting.
• Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biology, Chemistry, or other scientific discipline (or equivalency: one year of education may substitute for two years of related work experience).
• Two years of full-time laboratory experience.
• Demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills.
• Working knowledge of advanced scientific techniques and procedures, ability to make statistical calculations, analyze results, prepare reports, and perform specialized tests.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.