Research Technician I - Pediatrics Gastroenterology

Location: Saint Louis, MO 63110

Scheduled Hours: 40

About the role

Applications are invited for a Research Technician I in the Holtz laboratory. Our lab integrates molecular biology, microbiology, virology, epidemiology, metagenomic sequencing and bioinformatics to address questions in the developing childhood gut. A major project in the lab is a translational study focused on understanding how environmental exposures impact the development of the infant gut virome and bacterial microbiome. This position assists with laboratory duties in a research setting with direction from the supervisor or higher-level technician.

Responsibilities

• Assists the investigator or higher-level technician with research studies, experiments and assays, including collection of data, preparation of solutions and setup and maintenance of equipment.
• Maintains files on research and assists with data entry.
• Provides data entry and current data files on research projects. Monitors data to ensure consistent quality.
• Assures compliance with established safety procedures and maintains required documentation on laboratory and specimen conditions.
• Learns new techniques as needed.
• Manages thousands of stored human samples.
• Assists with general lab maintenance and cleaning.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Working Conditions

Works in a laboratory environment with potential exposure to biological and chemical hazards. Must be physically able to wear protective equipment and to provide standard care to research animals.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent high school certification or combination of education and/or experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate with laboratory staff and investigators.
• Experience with molecular biology.
• Experience with microbiology.
• Experience with sterile technique.
• Ability to multi-task as needed.
• Highly motivated to develop new skills.
• Ability to maintain complete and organized records/reports.
• Working knowledge of computer software and general lab equipment.
• Ability to communicate in written form with all levels of personnel and for technical publications.

Skills

• Detailed reports
• Software program proficiency

Pay

Salary Range: $16.54 - $22.35 / Hourly. The salary range reflects base salaries paid for positions in a given job grade across the University. Individual rates within the range will be determined by factors including one's qualifications and performance, equity with others in the department, market rates for positions within the same grade and department budget.

Benefits

• Up to 22 days of vacation, 10 recognized holidays, and sick time.
• Competitive health insurance packages with priority appointments and lower copays/coinsurance.
• Free Metro transit U-Pass for eligible employees.
• Defined contribution (403(b)) Retirement Savings Plan, combining employee contributions and university contributions starting at 7%.
• Wellness challenges, annual health screenings, mental health resources, mindfulness programs and courses, employee assistance program (EAP), financial resources, access to dietitians, and more.
• 4 weeks of caregiver leave to bond with your new child, plus family care resources for continued childcare needs.
• Tuition coverage for you and your family, including dependent undergraduate-level college tuition up to 100% at WashU and 40% elsewhere after seven years.