Job Information
University of Utah Lab Technician in Salt Lake City, Utah
Details
Open Date 04/03/2024
Requisition Number PRN38133B
Job Title Lab Technician
Working Title Lab Technician
Job Grade C
FLSA Code Nonexempt
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week 40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift Day
Work Schedule Summary
VP Area U of U Health - Academics
Department 00276 - Pharmacology and Toxicology
Location Campus
City Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment External Posting
Pay Rate Range 16.82
Close Date
Open Until Filled Yes
Job Summary
The Golkowski Lab in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and the Huntsman Cancer Institute is hiring an entry level lab technician. Our lab seeks to understand the molecular mechanism of cancer metastasis and therapy resistance with the goal of discovering novel biomarkers and drug targets. To achieve our goals, we combine mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomics, chemical biology, synthetic organic chemistry, molecular biology, and omics data science approaches. Lab techs joining our lab will have the unique opportunity to undergo extensive training in cutting-edge proteomics techniques, omics data analysis approaches, modern strategies in chemical biology and drug target discovery, including the design of kinase-directed probes, inhibitors and proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTACs), and high-throughput drug screenings, etc. Techs will also participate in preparing grant proposals and research papers and publish their results in highly regarded scientific journals. Accordingly, this position is ideal for students that seek to apply for graduate and medical school, as well as for students who pursue careers in the pharmaceutical industry.
Responsibilities
Duties:
Lab techs will work in a research laboratory applying theoretical concepts and techniques that can include, but are not limited to, protein and DNA gel electrophoresis, peptide preparations for LC-MS analysis, molecular cloning, cell and tissue culture, and organic synthesis and compound characterization. Lab techs will record observations and measurements and report results in individualized meetings with the PI, at group meetings, and meetings with collaborators across the School of Medicine and the Huntsman Cancer Institute, as well as external collaborators. Furthermore, lab techs will have the opportunity to participate in preparing research papers, grant applications, and conference presentations. Techs may be responsible for cleaning, disinfecting, and maintaining cleanrooms and equipment, and autoclaving growth media, glassware, etc. Techs will also assist with ordering and stocking of materials and equipment. The anticipated effort distribution between day-to-day lab maintenance and research is 50:50.
Confers with senior laboratory personnel regarding the procedures and techniques to be followed (outlined above) in conducting research and recommends modifications as needed.
Performs cell culture, molecular cloning, analytical and/or synthetic organic chemistry procedures.
Monitors and assists with purchasing of laboratory supplies and materials.
Conducts literature reviews to obtain abstracts and information to be utilized in research.
Conducts statistical calculations, analyzes data, and prepares and presents reports summarizing results using, e.g., Microsoft Excel, the R/Bioconductor environment, Perseus, etc.
May oversee the operations of student course experiments in a laboratory setting.
Problem Solving:
This position assists senior laboratory personnel in planning methods and techniques. Work requires exercising independent judgment and basic theoretical knowledge of the applicable science (see above). This position may include limited supervision of entry-level lab personnel.
This job description is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.
Applicants will need to provide a resume or CV, cover letter, and a list of 3 references (preferably professional).
Work Environment and Level of Frequency that may be required:
Nearly Continuously: Office environment.
Often: Infectious disease, oils ( there is air or skin exposure to oils or other cutting fluids ), hazards ( includes a variety of physical conditions, such as proximity to moving mechanical parts, moving vehicles, electrical current, working on scaffolding and high places, or exposure to chemicals ).
Seldom: Exposure to animals.
Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required
Nearly Continuously: Hearing, listening, talking.
Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking, standing, sitting.
Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or other scientific disciplines in a related field or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; knowledge of complex laboratory techniques, equipment, terminology, materials and substances. Skilled in the use of laboratory equipment, ability to create and analyze statistical calculations and prepare reports required; and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills also required. OSHA training and certification in animal care and use or the willingness to complete the certification may be required by some departments.
Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.
Preferences
Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology, biochemistry, or chemistry, or a closely related scientific discipline is required, and basic practical and theoretical knowledge of protein and DNA gel electrophoresis, immunoblot analysis, molecular cloning, cell culture techniques, synthetic organic chemistry, and data analysis using R, Python, and Microsoft Excel are highly desirable. Demonstrated interpersonal and effective communication skills are required. Applicants must demonstrate the ability to perform the essential functions of the job in collaboration with other laboratory members as outlined in the position description.
Type Benefited Staff
Special Instructions Summary
Additional Information
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service, may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and patients from all backgrounds and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education and quality healthcare for historically underrepresented students and patients.
All qualified individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
The University of Utah is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action ( OEO /AA). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at: https://www.utah.edu/nondiscrimination/
Online reports may be submitted at oeo.utah.edu
https://safety.utah.edu/safetyreport This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.