Research Technician II - Temp

Location: Upper East Side, NYC – Neurological Surgery

Temporary, non-exempt role – 35 hours/week – Salary range: $27.58 - $31.87/hour

About the Role

Under supervision, assists scientists—both independently and collaboratively—with laboratory and investigative procedures. Performs assays, imaging experiments, and other technical duties to support the research activities of the laboratory. May work with animal models and/or human subjects.

Responsibilities

• Independently or semi-independently designs and carries out experiments.
• Analyzes and interprets experimental results; provides input on subsequent experimental designs.
• Evaluates, recommends, and develops new techniques to improve laboratory efficiency.
• Conducts literature searches using various computer systems.
• Assists in editing scientific publications, abstracts, and posters.
• Provides working supervision to junior laboratory staff as needed.
• Orients and trains new investigators, fellows, residents, and technical staff on equipment, products, and experimental techniques.
• Performs tissue and cell culture activities.
• Runs routine biochemistry assays, including western blotting and RT-PCR.
• Audits and screens vendors/suppliers for product quality and equipment; corresponds for technical support.
• Prepares and maintains detailed records, logs, and summary reports of procedures and results, including graphs, scientific calculations, and statistical analysis.
• Performs routine molecular biology procedures such as PCR, protein and DNA electrophoresis, cloning, and DNA preparation.
• Performs microscopic imaging analyses.
• Maintains a clean working area; washes and stores glassware.
• May be responsible for animal husbandry, genotyping, surgeries, post-operative care, behavioral testing, sectioning, and histology.
• Ensures safe laboratory practices, including proper use and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Maintains inventory of supplies, equipment, and reagents; orders supplies as authorized or escalates needs appropriately.
• Receives and confirms accuracy of supply orders.
• Assists with cost control.
• Ensures facilities and equipment are in optimal working condition; coordinates preventative maintenance and repairs; performs minor repairs if qualified.
• May advise on equipment upgrades for performance enhancements.
• May handle receipt, storage, cataloguing, and shipment of samples within and between institutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Approximately 2 years of related work experience within a laboratory.
• Ability to work flexible hours.

Skills

• Experience with assays, imaging experiments, and technical laboratory procedures.
• Familiarity with animal models and/or human subjects research (as required).
• Proficiency in tissue and cell culture, western blotting, RT-PCR, PCR, protein/DNA electrophoresis, cloning, and DNA preparation.
• Ability to analyze and interpret experimental results.
• Experience with microscopic imaging analyses.
• Knowledge of safe laboratory practices, including handling and disposal of chemicals and hazardous materials.
• Strong record-keeping and documentation skills.
• Ability to supervise and train junior staff.
• Experience with vendor evaluation and technical correspondence.
• Ability to perform minor equipment repairs and coordinate maintenance.

Working Conditions

• Standard laboratory conditions.
• May handle radioactive material and/or biologic materials from human subjects.
• May require standing or sitting for long periods.
• May work within Biologic Safety Level 1, 2, and/or 3 facilities.