Laboratory Technician - WVU Cancer Institute/Clinical Research Trials

About The Role

Responsible for the independent coordination and processing of clinical trial biospecimens for the WVU Cancer Institute Biospecimen and Translational Research Analysis Core (BioTRAC). Performs protocol-specific laboratory procedures in accordance with sponsor requirements, regulatory standards, and institutional guidelines. Ensures the integrity, quality, and timely handling of specimens from kit preparation and specimen collection through shipment and/or storage.

Responsibilities

• Independently perform biospecimen processing for clinical trials in accordance with study protocols, laboratory manuals, and sponsor requirements.
• Execute laboratory procedures including, but not limited to, centrifugation, aliquoting, pipetting, labeling, cell counting, and cell separation techniques.
• Ensure proper handling and chain of custody for all specimens from collection through processing, storage, shipment, and/or destruction.
• Accurately document specimen collection, processing, and shipment details in study-specific databases, tracking systems, and/or source documentation.
• Prepare and ship biospecimens in compliance with federal, institutional, and sponsor regulations.
• Coincide with clinical teams (e.g., nursing, surgical services, interventional radiology, pathology) to facilitate timely and protocol-compliant specimen collection and processing.
• Provide real-time support for time-sensitive specimen collections, including fresh tissue processing during procedures as required by protocol.
• Communicate with sponsors, central laboratories, and study teams to resolve specimen-related queries and ensure protocol adherence.
• Maintain laboratory readiness by organizing supplies, monitoring inventory levels, and ensuring availability of study kits and materials.
• Perform routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment; escalate issues as appropriate.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready laboratory environment in compliance with institutional and regulatory standards.
• Adhere to all applicable safety, regulatory, and institutional policies, including GCP/GCLP guidelines where applicable.
• Participate in protocol trainings, team meetings, and continuing education to remain current with study requirements and laboratory practices.
• Proactively identify and address workflow challenges; demonstrate initiative in improving efficiency and maintaining continuity of laboratory operations.
• Independently interpret protocol requirements to ensure accurate specimen processing and compliance with study-specific procedures.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Achieve an Associate’s degree in healthcare, biological sciences or a related field.
• Have a minimum of two (2) years of experience in a clinical, research, or laboratory setting.
• Phlebotomy certification is preferred.

Qualifications

• Experience with biospecimen collection, processing, and handling in clinical research or biobanking environment preferred.
• Experience working with clinical trial protocols, laboratory manuals, or sponsor requirements preferred.
• Experience with specimen tracking systems, laboratory databases, or electronic medical records (e.g., EPIC) preferred.
• Experience performing basic laboratory techniques such as centrifugation, pipetting, aliquoting, and sample preparation required.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced clinical research environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple, time-sensitive tasks.
• Demonstrated high level of attention to detail and accuracy in specimen handling and documentation.
• Ability to interpret and follow complex clinical trial protocols and laboratory manuals.
• Working knowledge of clinical research practices and biospecimen processing techniques preferred.
• Effective interpersonal and communication skills to collaborate with clinical staff, research teams, and external sponsors.
• Proficiency in standard computer applications and data entry systems.
• Ability to identify problems, evaluate options, and implement appropriate solutions within defined guidelines.

Benefits

• A 37.5-hour work week.
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar).
• 15 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave).
• 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof).
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits.
• A 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks.
• Wellness programs.