RBL5 Research Technician III

This position is for the Division of Infectious Diseases within the Department of Pediatrics. The incumbent will work in the laboratory of an investigator studying tuberculosis. Responsibilities will include using immunologic, molecular, and microbiologic assays on blood and tissues specimens from animals experimentally infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The incumbent will follow established protocols, troubleshoot protocols as necessary, and collect and analyze data. They will also be expected to maintain accurate, detailed, and organized records. Experience with infectious disease research, cell culture, microbiological, and/or immunological techniques (e.g. FACS and ELISPOT) is encouraged. Much of the work will be conducted at Biohazard Safety Levels 2 and 3, with some conducted in the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory. The incumbent must be able to pass requirements to perform duties in the Regional Biocontainment Lab (e.g., Dept of Justice approval, ability to work in BSL2+ and BSL3 conditions, etc). The incumbent must be able to both obtain and maintain the aforementioned select agent clearance for the position. This position is eligible for an RBL Premium Payment. Equivalent relevant work experience may be substituted for degree requirement. PA Child Abuse History Clearance, PA State Police Criminal Record Check, and FBI Criminal Record Check will be required prior to the start of employment. Also, a current TB test will be required as a condition of employment.

Performs a variety of independent laboratory work and experiments such as determining experimental protocols and preparation of specimens and cultures. Prepares reports of findings subsequent to compilation and analyzation. Oversees specimen inventory. Develops documentation for publication; crafts manuscripts and grant proposals.

Performs a variety of independent laboratory work and experiments such as determining experimental protocols and preparation of specimens and cultures. Prepares reports of findings subsequent to compilation and analyzation. Oversees specimen inventory. Develops documentation for publication; crafts manuscripts and grant proposals.

Percentage Of Time: 85%

Conduct laboratory assays and procedures: Conduct experiments in support of studies involving Mycobacterium tuberculosis, using advanced immunological, microbiological, and molecular assays and Biohazard Safety Level 2+/3 techniques. Initiate and troubleshoot protocols when necessary. Work will involve handling non-human primate blood and tissue specimens. Specific assays will vary but may include PBMC isolation, tissue homogenization, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry.

Performance Standard: Prompt, careful, and responsible performance of all procedures.

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Administrative duties: Assist senior researchers in production of graphics for grant application and manuscripts. Compile and analyze data, noting abnormalities and discrepancies. Organize and maintain accurate and complete records, both written and electronic.

Performance Standard: Proficient with Excel, Word, Prism, and PowerPoint. Organized work habits and good written and oral communication skills.

Percentage Of Time: 5%

Other related duties, as assigned: Maintain general laboratory inventory and supplies, basic housekeeping of laboratory, and updating freezer inventories.

Performance Standard: Reliability and attention to detail.

Percentage Of Time: 85%

Conduct laboratory assays and procedures: Conduct experiments in support of studies involving Mycobacterium tuberculosis, using advanced immunological, microbiological, and molecular assays and Biohazard Safety Level 2+/3 techniques. Initiate and troubleshoot protocols when necessary. Work will involve handling non-human primate blood and tissue specimens. Specific assays will vary but may include PBMC isolation, tissue homogenization, flow cytometry, and immunohistochemistry.

Performance Standard: Prompt, careful, and responsible performance of all procedures.

Percentage Of Time: 10%

Administrative duties: Assist senior researchers in production of graphics for grant application and manuscripts. Compile and analyze data, noting abnormalities and discrepancies. Organize and maintain accurate and complete records, both written and electronic.

Performance Standard: Proficient with Excel, Word, Prism, and PowerPoint. Organized work habits and good written and oral communication skills.

Percentage Of Time: 5%

Other related duties, as assigned: Maintain general laboratory inventory and supplies, basic housekeeping of laboratory, and updating freezer inventories.

Performance Standard: Reliability and attention to detail.

Must be able to work in a Biohazard Safety Level 3 laboratory, including the ability to wear the requisite personal protective equipment. Must be able to use a computer keyboard and mouse, to see and hear clearly to maintain a safe working environment, and to critically analyze and synthesize information.

Must be able to work in a Biohazard Safety Level 3 laboratory, including the ability to wear the requisite personal protective equipment. Must be able to use a computer keyboard and mouse, to see and hear clearly to maintain a safe working environment, and to critically analyze and synthesize information.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.