Research Assistant II - Leukemia

Responsibilities

• Maintain and organize leukemia banking samples and research biospecimens
• Process and store bone marrow and blood specimens following protocol requirements
• Cook with research nurses to obtain patient blood, bone marrow aspirates, and tumor samples
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and legible laboratory documentation
• Operate laboratory equipment for biospecimen processing and storage
• Review literature and confer with supervisors to update procedures
• Record and evaluate data as assigned
• Maintain attention to detail and alertness while working with samples
• Comply with institutional safety policies, including the use of biological safety cabinet
• Perform routine maintenance of ultra-low freezers and monitor liquid nitrogen, CO2, and water levels
• Molecular & Cellular Biology
• Perform bone marrow aspirate processing to produce mononuclear cells
• Complete serum extraction, DNA preparation, and RNA extraction
• Maintain tissue culture cell lines using proper sterile techniques
• Observe cells under the microscope and assess culture health
• Determine cell counts using a hemocytometer
• Perform small-volume pipetting tasks with accuracy
• Obtain and process samples consistently and promptly
• Troubleshoot laboratory issues and seek guidance as needed
• Research Support & Documentation
• Demonsrate full understanding of assigned research projects and protocols
• Present project updates during weekly laboratory meetings
• Maintain organized handwritten and digital records of procedures and protocols
• Participate in SOP quality control reviews
• Perform biospecimen inventory checks and documentation reviews
• Collaborate with team members and directors to resolve workflow issues

Qualifications

• Required: Bachelor's Degree in Basic Science
• Preferred: Master's Degree in Basic Science
• Preferred: Medical Degree
• Required: One year Scientific or experimental research work experience

Benefits

• Employer-paid medical coverage starting day one for employees working 30+ hours/week, plus optional group dental, vision, life, AD&D, and disability insurance.
• Accruals for PTO and Extended Illness Bank, plus paid holidays, wellness, childcare, and other leave options.
• Tuition Assistance Program after six months of service and access to extensive wellness, fitness, and employee resource groups.
• Defined-benefit pension through the Teachers Retirement System, voluntary retirement plans, and employer-paid life and reduced salary protection programs.