RBL5 Laboratory Research Technician

This position will serve as a Laboratory Research Technician for the Center for Vaccine Research. The incumbent will be responsible for conducting independent methods and procedures for research involving molecular and cellular biology in the Biosafety Level (BSL) 2 and 3 environments with routine work with viruses in the Regional Biocontainment Laboratory (RBL). The incumbent will be required to have good communication skills and the ability to work independently and as a fully productive, cooperative team member. Strict adherence to BSL2/BSL3 procedures is essential.

Research responsibilities will include, but are not limited to: designing and conducting independent studies on viruses in BSL2 and BSL3 environments; analyzing, preparing, and presenting data; performing advanced virology, microbiology, and molecular biology techniques (virus culture, virus titration, RT-qPCR, RNA extraction, tissue processing for histology and immunostaining, fluorescence microscopy, western blot, PCR, culture of primary and transformed cell lines); basic rat and mouse techniques (injections, blood draws, dissection, necropsy, observations, breeding); and maintaining tissue culture lines and generating primary cell cultures. Incumbent should be able to independently initiate and troubleshoot research protocols; supervise and train other professional research personnel in specialized techniques (new personnel, undergraduates, and rotation students); operate and maintain laboratory equipment; assist other research personnel in performing research protocols and operating laboratory equipment; maintain thorough documentation of laboratory results; order and maintain laboratory supplies. Experience working with rodents is preferred but not required.

Laboratory management duties include managing day-to-day lab operations; physical and electronic management of lab operations; oversight of laboratory compliance (IACUC, IBC, IRB protocols); oversight of animal studies including ordering, transfers, and overall study coordination; oversight of basic lab expenditures such as animal purchases and per diems costs; lab website updates; and maintenance of grant and publication library for the lab; any other duties as requested by PI.

This position requires successful completion of Department of Justice security clearance for work with Select Agents and Toxins, as required by Federal regulation. This position is eligible for an RBL Premium Payment.

Performs a variety of independent and complex laboratory work and experiments. Analyzes and interprets data, compiles results, and prepares reports. Maintains inventory, ordering, and logs. Writes manuscripts and grant proposals and prepares data visualizations.

Must be able to read and comprehend the English language and have normal visual ability with no hearing impairments. Must possess adequate manual dexterity to perform sensitive laboratory including work with a BSL3/ABSL3 environment.

Position involves frequent movement to various places, occasionally involving heavy equipment and prolonged standing or sitting.

The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.

The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.