Laboratory Technician

SUMMARY:

The laboratory technician reports to the Chair, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and also works under the direction of specific School of Pharmacy faculty, as delegated/designated by the Chair, to help maintain a productive research environment. The Laboratory Technician will be responsible for the daily operation of the labs, such as maintenance of equipment, cell cultures and laboratory animals, ordering and administrative duties. Interaction with students is an important component, as the Laboratory Technician will help train and supervise students in the research labs. The laboratory technician will work with faculty on several research lines, including formulation development, respiratory pharmacology, behavioral neuroscience studies and pharmacogenomics.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Train students and supervise their use of laboratory equipment.
• Conduct experimental studies, collect and analyze data under the direction of the research faculty (Principle Investigators).
• Assist research faculty in maintaining cell cultures and taking care of laboratory animals (rodents).
• Ensure that laboratory supplies are ordered in a timely manner and that a detailed inventory of equipment and supplies is kept.
• Ensure that laboratory equipment is kept in proper working order through routine repair, scheduling of service requests, and standard sample analysis.
• Review, instruct and enforce proper laboratory safety procedures with faculty and students and notify the Research Committee and the appropriate faculty researcher about any violations that may occur.
• Ensure that proper records and log books are kept of faculty and students using laboratory equipment.
• Oversee the proper collection and disposal of laboratory, chemical and animal waste in accordance with university and external accrediting body guidelines.
• Serve as a liaison between the School of Pharmacy and the University Risk Manager regarding the School’s Chemical Hygiene plan.
• Attend all school of pharmacy and university staff meetings and events.
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited university in the Natural or Pharmaceutical Sciences or related field is desired.
• Two plus years of experience in a laboratory setting is preferred. Experience with working with students is preferred.
• Expertise in analytical chemistry (preferably working with HPLC and LC MS-MS)
• Expertise in molecular biology (preferably cell culturing, Western analysis and PCR)
• Experience with working with small laboratory animals (rodents)
• The ability to work independently
• Good professional attitude towards students.
• Responsible for expense management within area budget.
• Effective organization of duties and attention to detail, ensuring that responsibilities are completed in a timely, efficient manner and in accordance with University standards.
• Effectively manage the daily responsibilities in the labs.
• Participates in constructive, collaborative relationships, with evidence of a compassionate, cooperative spirit.
• Demonstrates Christian values in one’s daily actions.
• Decisions and actions are fully congruent with the mission, vision, goals and core values of both the university and the school.
• Effectively communicates; keeping people informed as needed; being receptive and approachable.