R&D Technician II

Job Summary and Purpose

To function as a support role for the development and licensure of vaccines, new label claims or product improvement research of licensed vaccines. Perform laboratory and clinical activities in compliance with quality and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities and Key Duties

• Analytical: Perform a wide range of laboratory assays, such as classical microbiological techniques, general tissue culture, ELISA, Western blot, PCR, etc. under supervision from a senior scientist; perform new analytical assays under development; learn and execute new laboratory techniques; enter data sets into spreadsheets for statistical analysis; assist with assay and method transfer to QC or Production departments
• Clinical: Participate in clinical trials; may act as a study monitor as needed; prepare and process clinical samples
• Communication: Independently source supplies in support of laboratory and clinical studies; interact with external suppliers in consultation with direct manager when required; maintain regular inter- and intradepartmental communication in support of ongoing projects
• Scientific Writing/Presentation: Maintain high quality laboratory documentation; review and edit laboratory methods, protocols, reports, and operating procedures of low complexity; review technical documents for accuracy of timeliness, methods, and data sets; prepare presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint for sharing of data
• Laboratory Maintenance: Organize and maintain inventory records for freezers and contents; prepare media, reagents, buffers and glassware used in laboratory tests; propagate/maintain various culture systems including, but not limited to: primary or secondary cells, immortalized cell lines, embryos, and bacterial cultures; follow, comply with, and maintain laboratory and equipment cleaning and maintenance schedules; keep laboratory stocked and maintain equipment; adhere to appropriate safety requirements and protocols

Core Competencies

• Shape solutions out of complexity – Accepts the need for flexibility
• Client focus – Responds to requests and needs in a positive way
• Collaborate with empathy – Actively shares information and listens to others within a group
• Engage and develop – Actively seeks new opportunities for learning
• Drive ambition and accountability – Ensures accuracy of his/her work
• Influence others – Communicates clearly

Technical / Functional Competencies

• Knowledge of microbiology techniques (aseptic technique, preparation of media, culturing organisms, etc.)
• Knowledge of laboratory assays
• Ability to participate in clinical trials
• Ability to read, write legibly and communicate in English
• Ability to perform experiments within one's scope of work
• Ability to clearly and accurately write and present scientific information
• Ability to work in a team setting

Qualifications

• Education: BA/BS or MS in Microbiology, Biology or related field
• Work Experience: 3+ years of relevant experience. Previous experience using aseptic techniques, propagating cells using tissue culture, and working with poultry are preferred
• Other: Experience with virus propagation and/or titration techniques. Experience with PCR, ELISA, and Western blot, and knowledge of molecular techniques preferred

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Visual inspection tasks frequently require prolonged mental and visual concentration
• May use hazardous chemicals to complete tasks
• Work in laboratory and animal facility setting using required personal protective equipment