Student Worker - VBRI Flow Cytometry Core

About the Institute

Located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) is the largest blood-focused research institute in the United States. With over 30 basic, translational, and clinical investigators, the institute is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and developing innovative therapies related to blood and blood disorders. Research interests encompass transfusion medicine, cellular therapy, thrombosis/hemostasis, immunology, and hematologic malignancies.

As part of Versiti, a non-profit organization with a blood bank at its core, VBRI strives to improve lives through innovative research and the development of novel diagnostics and treatments. VBRI is located on the Milwaukee Regional Medical Campus, a rapidly growing clinical-translational research hub, facilitating seamless interdisciplinary collaborations with the Medical College of Wisconsin, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, and Froedtert Hospital. A range of exemplary core facilities supports highly competitive research.

In summer 2024, construction began on a new research building, doubling existing VBRI research space to enable the recruitment of 10-15 new faculty. With renowned researchers, strategic expansion plans, and a highly collaborative environment, VBRI is poised to maintain and expand its position as one of the leading hematology institutes in the world.

About the Role

The Versiti Blood Research Institute (VBRI) Flow Cytometry Core is seeking a motivated master’s-level STEM student to support the daily operations of its shared research instrumentation facility. The Core lab provides oversight and expert scientific support to over 200 campus users for ~$4 million in advanced cytometry equipment, including state-of-the-art spectral, imaging, and small-particle analyzers.

This internship offers hands-on experience with flow cytometers and cell sorters while developing technical, communication, and problem-solving skills in a collaborative research environment. It is ideal for students interested in fluorescence-based cell analysis, single-cell techniques, instrument/experimental troubleshooting, or future careers in immunology or cell biology research.

Under the guidance of Flow Cytometry Core staff, the Student Assistant will participate in routine instrument maintenance and calibration, perform cell-sorting procedures, support administrative tasks, and contribute to the organization and operation of the facility. The student will also have opportunities to learn flow cytometry sample preparation, data acquisition, and analysis, with responsibilities tailored to their interests and strengths.

Responsibilities

• Provides administrative support to the department, including filing, data entry, and handling customer requests.
• Prepares presentations for company leaders.
• Helps identify opportunities for process efficiency and collaborates with teams as necessary.
• Assists with the analysis and resolution of department issues and makes recommendations as appropriate.
• Assists staff with various support activities upon request, such as special projects and reports.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the job classification.
• Understands and performs in accordance with all applicable regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Complies with all standard operating policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma required.
• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university majoring in communications, business, or a health-related discipline.

Experience

• 1-3 years of experience with Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, and Outlook) required.
• Less than 1 year of experience with integrated HRIS/payroll systems required; experience with Ceridian preferred.
• Less than 1 year of experience in a healthcare setting preferred.

Skills

• Ability to handle confidential information appropriately.
• Ability to quickly and accurately understand instructions and work independently on assignments.
• Ability to read and interpret documents such as Standard Operating Procedures, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and other department manuals.
• Detail-oriented to evaluate and ensure accuracy of data.
• Strong sense of urgency to meet deadlines.
• Exceptional organizational and problem-solving skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects.
• Strong interpersonal skills and exceptional commitment to customer service.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to write, interpret, and explain information related to benefits.

Benefits

Versiti provides a comprehensive benefits package based on job classification. Full-time regular employees are eligible for:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holidays
• Short- and Long-term disability
• Life insurance
• 7% dollar-for-dollar 401(k) match
• Voluntary programs
• Discount programs

Pay

The target salary is based on internal averages. Versiti sets salary ranges aligned to local markets, with compensation decisions considering internal salary averages and differentiation based on education, experience, skills, and performance. Specific salary information is shared at the time of the phone screening based on location and qualifications.