Research Assistant Per Diem

About the Role

When you join the growing BILH team, you're not just taking a job, you're making a difference in people's lives. Under general supervision of the principal investigator, you conduct a variety of computational and data-driven analyses in support of biological research projects, with secondary involvement in routine and specialized laboratory experiments using molecular and cell biology and/or biochemistry techniques. The incumbent performs computational workflows with speed, precision, and a solid understanding of the underlying biological questions, including data processing, quantitative analysis, visualization, and interpretation of high-dimensional experimental datasets using established software tools, scripts, and analytical pipelines. Limited wet-lab responsibilities may include assisting with sample preparation, experimental execution, or validation studies. You will perform Level I responsibilities with an increased level of problem solving, analytical ability, and self-direction, including integrating computational results with experimental design and contributing to data-informed refinement of research strategies.

Responsibilities

• Performs routine and non-routine laboratory tests which may include DNA sequencing, gene cloning, in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry, northern blotting; synthesizes and interprets results.
• May operate and maintain moderate to complex lab equipment such as spectrophotometer, flow cytometer, etc.
• Using analytical abilities and sound judgment, makes decisions regarding the reliability and accuracy of results, repeating procedures when necessary.
• May assist with planning specific research procedures and coordinating schedules of tests and procedures.
• May prepare written and/or verbal reports on status of research and the technical procedures used, including statistical and graphic summaries of findings and possible conclusions.
• May have technical expertise in specific area(s) that surpasses basic performance expectations (e.g., knowledge/use of the electron microscope), contributes to the laboratory by utilizing this experience.
• May demonstrate routine to complex lab techniques to others in the lab.
• Attends Medical Center lectures regarding all safety requirements/conditions.
• Attends courses, lectures, and conferences to further own knowledge of research and laboratory techniques; consults with other researchers and technicians to exchange information.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Life Sciences or related scientific field required.
• 1-3 years related work experience required, including 1 year of related experience or a Master's degree with requisite knowledge and skills.
• Experience with computer systems required, including web-based applications and some Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, or Access).

Skills

• Decision Making: Ability to make decisions based on specific instructions, standard practices, and established procedures with little or no supervision.
• Problem Solving: Ability to address routine, somewhat repetitive problems generally solved by following clear directions and identifying opportunities for process improvements.
• Independence of Action: Ability to follow general instructions and procedures as provided; work is monitored by supervisor/manager.
• Written Communications: Ability to read and write in English to understand basic safety instructions, take direction from supervisors, communicate effectively with patients, families, and medical center staff, and respond to basic questions.
• Oral Communications: Ability to understand spoken English to follow basic safety instructions and take direction from supervisors; communicate effectively in basic English with patients, families, and medical center staff.
• Knowledge: Ability to demonstrate basic knowledge of fundamental concepts, practices, and procedures and use them in routine situations; specialized knowledge not required.
• Team Work: Ability to interact respectfully with other employees, professional staff, and/or external contacts to offer ideas, identify issues, obtain information, or deliver services.
• Customer Service: Ability to demonstrate a positive attitude and respond to requests in a timely and respectful manner.

Work Environment

• Social/Environmental Requirements:
  • Work requires periods of close attention to work without interruption; concentrated effort of up to 4 hours without a break may be required.
  • Work routine is fairly consistent, but requires judgment to respond to events several times a week.
• Potential Exposure to Adverse Environmental Conditions:
  • Daily: Exposure to dust, gas, fumes, steam, chemicals (lab equipment); protective equipment required (respirator, earplugs, mask, gloves, eyewear, etc.). Potential exposure to infectious diseases, airborne pathogens, and/or bloodborne pathogens.
  • Several times a week: Radiation (irradiator possible).
• Sensory Requirements: Close work (paperwork, visual examination), color vision/perception, visual monotony, visual clarity.
• Physical Requirements:
  • Light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force frequently to move objects.
  • Some elements of the job are sedentary, but the employee will be required to stand for periods of time or move throughout the hospital campus.
  • Constant endurance: Working up to 5-6 hours without a break; frequent sitting, standing, fine manipulation using both hands, keyboard use.
  • Rarely: Power grasping using both hands.

Pay

The pay range listed for this position is the base hourly wage range the organization reasonably and in good faith expects to pay: $21.64 - $31.25. Actual compensation is determined based on several factors, including seniority, education, training, relevant experience, relevant certifications, geography of work location, job responsibilities, or other applicable factors permissible by law. Compensation may exceed the base hourly rate depending on shift differentials, call pay, premium pay, overtime pay, and other additional pay practices, as applicable to the position and in accordance with the law.

Additional Information

As a health care organization, we require all staff to be vaccinated against influenza (flu) as a condition of employment.