Research Assistant 2 (Cytometry & Microscopy)

Starting wage rate is $19.41 per hour, depending on qualifications, experience, department budgets, and industry data.

About the role

Working under general supervision, plan and carry out research projects in accordance with general plans to ensure smooth, professional operation of the Cytometry & Microscopy Shared Resource. The research assistant will assist and perform shared-resource users in cytometric or microscopic data acquisition, data analysis, and/or cell sorting services. The research assistant will also assist in conducting experiments when users request full service and maintain core instruments within manufacturer's specifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan and carry out projects, providing technical expertise on operating instruments to shared-resource users (graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, full professors, clinicians, and other investigators) for both cell sorting and data acquisition. (20%)
• Conduct experiments to supply scientific information as part of larger projects, working with users to perform processing, staining, execution, and analysis. These studies contribute directly to manuscripts and grants. Perform research work in cell sorting services. (15%)
• Assist in developing improved techniques, projection methods, or procedures to enhance accuracy and efficiency of data acquisition. (15%)
• Collect and analyze data, including quality control, maintenance, and performance test data for cytometers, cell sorters, or related instruments. Validate electronically logged usage time prior to invoicing. Perform limited data analysis using FlowJo software. (15%)
• Oversee inventory and maintain equipment, including monitoring instrument sign-up schedules using iLab and Cytocore email, maintaining consumable inventory, ordering supplies, preparing reagents, and maintaining the scanner on the third floor. (20%)
• Train new staff and direct the work of students. Provide training to users on operating instruments, developing protocols, and managing service contracts. (15%)
• Perform other duties as assigned. (<1%)

Contacts

• Department: Continuous contact with other shared-resource staff to maintain workflow. Occasional contact with the shared-resource Director (Faculty) and Cancer Center financial administrators.
• University: Continuous contact with shared-resource users, including graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, research assistants, research associates, instructors, staff scientists, professors, medical students, clinicians, and other investigators.
• External: Periodic contact with users from outside the institution and with company representatives (service engineers, salespeople, and experts) who manufacture shared-resource instruments.
• Students: Periodic, variable contact with users who are primarily graduate students.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position has no direct supervision of staff employees but includes training new staff and directing the work of students.

Qualifications

Education and experience: Bachelor's degree and 1 to 3 years of related experience or Associate's degree in an approved biotechnology program and 2 to 4 years of experience.

Skills

• Knowledge and understanding of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within biology, cytometry, and microscopy.
• Ability to perform essential functions of the position.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Good interpersonal skills; ability to work and communicate with various individuals within and outside the University.
• Strong organizational skills: ability to multi-task, prioritize, and maintain attention to detail.
• Ability to coordinate several projects, meet deadlines, and follow through on assigned tasks.
• Commitment to high quality and user satisfaction.
• Capacity to learn rapidly, work collaboratively, and adapt to supervision that reduces over time.
• Strong work ethic, consistent attendance, and ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, changing environment and conform to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines.
• Flexibility to respond to project adjustments and stressful situations promptly and efficiently.
• Strong information technology skills; ability to work with complex software (e.g., Microsoft Office, database applications, internet navigation).
• Ability to learn and apply new software programs and applications as needed.
• Technical competence with laboratory equipment such as BD Biosciences LSR II, Life Sciences Attune NxT, BD Biosciences LSRFortessa, Amnis Image Stream, BD Biosciences Aria-SORP, BD Biosciences Symphony S6.
• Ability to learn and perform all safety functions for blood-borne pathogens and chemicals.
• Ability to demonstrate support, education, and advocacy aligned with university values and policies.

Benefits

University employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare, retirement plans, tuition assistance, paid time off, and a winter recess.

Working Conditions

• General laboratory environment with potential exposure to hazards.
• Exposure to animal and human cells, tissues, fluids, chemicals, radiation, and lasers.
• Must wear appropriate protective equipment (e.g., gloves, coat, eyewear) and perform all duties safely.
• Must be able to lift 50 pounds.