Research Technologist 1

Job Description

The Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology (CSDE) has an outstanding opportunity for a Research Technologist to join their team.

About this Opportunity

Reporting to the Biodemography Lab Director, the Research Technologist is responsible for a wide variety of tasks associated with the daily operation of biosafety level 2 laboratories supporting population research. The Biodemography Lab primarily uses enzyme immunoassays to measure

biochemical markers and qPCR-based assays to measure molecular markers in a variety of biospecimen types, often for large-scale population health studies.

Worksite: UW Seattle Campus, on-site

Work Schedule: 100% FTE, Monday-Friday, Day shift

Key Responsibilities

Scientific Research Activities – 90%

o Perform routine enzyme immunoassays and PCR/qPCR assays

o Receive, inventory, and process biological specimens to prepare them for assay

o Prepare buffers, solutions, and reagents

o Collect, record, and verify accuracy of data; organize laboratory data

o Assist in recording and monitoring assay quality control data for all assays

o May perform analyses and prepare charts, graphs, and reports

o May assist in project management, including organizing biomarker collection

supplies, assisting in IRB applications and status reports, organizing project

documents, scheduling project meetings, and preparing agendas and minutes

Lab Management – 10%

o Participate in laboratory meetings and planning sessions

o Monitor inventory of consumable supplies and reorder as needed

o Assist with equipment maintenance and lab housekeeping

o Assist in maintaining adherence to and documenting compliance with UW EH&S rules for lab safety for all lab users

o Assist in maintaining an archive of biological specimens, including monitoring

refrigerators and freezers and organizing cold storage space

o May demonstrate and explain various laboratory techniques to laboratory personnel, students, and others

This position performs essential services and may be required to work during any period of declared suspended operation.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration.

Minimum Qualifications

o A Bachelors Degree in Biology, Biological Anthropology, or related field OR

o Two years experience as a Laboratory Technician II, or equivalent;

o Applicants who do not meet these qualifications WILL NOT be forwarded to the Hiring Department.

Additional Qualifications

 o Experience in lab research (either as a student or employee), with a proven record of careful attention to detail and conscientious work habits

 o Proficiency in or ability to learn techniques for:

o processing large numbers of specimens accurately

o immunoassays with the use of a BioTek microtiter plate reader and Gen5 software

o qPCR assays with the use of a BioRad thermocycler and CFX software

 o Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and proficiency in other Microsoft Office software

o Willing to work with potentially infectious biological specimens collected from humans

o Ability to work to high standards both independently and as an integral and active member of a close-knit research team

o Commitment to a quality of work that meets CSDE high standards for excellent research and excellent service

Preferred Qualifications

o Statistical software or programming skills

o Familiarity with UW EH&S lab safety rules

o Experience with the UW procurement, IRB, and other systems

About the Team:

CSDE (Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology) is federally funded population research center offering infrastructure support, including scientific consultation, grants administration, computing, and training. and lab services to facilitate work involving biomarker data. CSDE’s Biodemography Lab specializes in developing, optimizing, and carrying out biomarker assays for large-scale research projects. Biodemography Lab staff

support affiliates and collaborators with everything from study design and assay validation to specimen collection and equipment for biomarker-based research.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$45,144.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$53,148.00 annual

Other Compensation:

-

Benefits:

For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

SEIU Local 925 Research Tech

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.