Research Asst 3 - ON SITE

Job Summary

As a Research Assistant 3, you will play a key role in advancing the research efforts of the Vanderbilt Infection Surveillance & Prevention Research (VISPR) Program. This program investigates the causes, epidemiology, risk factors, prevention, and treatment of viral acute respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, focusing on children and other special populations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field.
• A minimum of 4 years of hands-on laboratory experience, showcasing proficiency in laboratory techniques and protocols.
• The ability to collaborate seamlessly within a team environment while demonstrating strong leadership capabilities to guide and support others effectively.
• Exceptional data management skills, with the ability to organize, analyze, and interpret information accurately and efficiently.
• Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring precision and consistency in all aspects of your work.

Department Summary

The Vanderbilt Infection Surveillance & Prevention Research Program was formed in 2024 to conduct clinical and translational research determining the burden of diarrheal and respiratory illnesses in young children and specialized populations and to find ways to reduce their burden (e.g., through vaccines, drugs, etc.). Since 2002, Dr. Halasa has been involved in vaccine trials enrolling children of all ages, including young infants and specialized populations such as children with cancer. For more information, please visit https://www.vumc.org/halasa-lab/welcome-vispr.

Key Responsibilities

• Specimen management: Specimen receipt, sorting, inspection, and verification; reconciliation of specimen collection and receipt with information in the laboratory and Program clinical databases; specimen shipment; curation of the specimen biorepository; processing and testing of specimens from numerous and diverse studies.
• Lab data, records, and written procedures: Record data, perform data analysis, and create graphs/reports; create and review standard operating procedures (SOPs); maintain current, accurate, and fully annotated information in specimen biorepository electronic inventory systems; maintain electronic supply inventories.
• Communication, instruction, and collaboration: Effectively communicate study results, progress, status, challenges, and action plans to supervisor, laboratory group during regular meetings, and VISPR Program collaborators; onboarding and training of new members in lab-processing techniques and related functions; work synergistically with other VISPR team members (laboratory, clinical, data, and administration) in a proactive, solution-oriented manner to accomplish goals and resolve problems.

Technical Capabilities

The Academic Enterprise is one of the nation’s longest serving and most prestigious academic medical centers. Through its historic bond with Vanderbilt University and integral role in the School of Medicine, Vanderbilt Health cultivates distinguished research and educational programs to advance a clinical enterprise that provides compassionate and personalized care and support for millions of patients and family members each year. World-leading academic departments and comprehensive centers of excellence pursue scientific discoveries and transformational educational and clinical advances across the entire spectrum of health and disease.

Core Accountabilities

• Organizational Impact: Independently delivers on objectives with understanding of how they impact the results of own area/team and other related teams.
• Problem Solving/Complexity of work: Utilizes multiple sources of data to analyze and resolve complex problems; may take a new perspective on existing solutions.
• Breadth of Knowledge: Has advanced knowledge within a professional area and basic knowledge across related areas.
• Team Interaction: Acts as a "go-to" resource for colleagues with less experience; may lead small project teams.

Position Qualifications

• Relevant Work Experience: Experience Level 4 years.
• Education: Bachelor's.

Benefits

Vanderbilt Health is committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the chance to thrive and is committed to the principles of equal opportunity. EOE/Vets/Disabled.