Research Technician II

Occupational summary:

Perform a variety of complex technical duties involved in conducting laboratory tests, experiments and determinations in support of Duke University research operations. Specific requirements are: mouse colony management and genotyping; ordering, supply management, and other duties involved with general laboratory upkeep; tissue preparation and histology; standard molecular biology work.

Work Performed:

Perform a variety of complex technical duties involved in conducting physical, chemical, biological and other research laboratory tests, experiments and determinations to obtain data for research purposes; compile, analyze, document and draw tentative conclusions from experimental results.

Confer with principal investigator to review work assignments and develop plans for research experiments; make minor modifications to existing laboratory procedures and techniques to meet the needs of the particular equipment as required. Review laboratory methods manual, scientific journals, abstracts and other literature for information applicable to research experiments.

Determine and set up instruments, material and apparatus and operate laboratory equipment required for specific tests.

Obtain, prepare, mount and stain tissue, blood and other substances for microscopic examination.

Prepare culture media, chemicals, reagents and solutions.

Maintain sufficient inventory of material, supplies and equipment for performance of duties; clean and maintain laboratory equipment.

Review work of lower level laboratory personnel within designated areas and assist in training new personnel.

Perform other related duties incidental to the work described herein.

The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed by individuals assigned to this classification. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties required of personnel so classified.

Required Qualifications at this Level:

Education/Training: Work requires a bachelor's degree in biology, neurobiology, botany, zoology or other science related scientific field.

Experience: None required above education/training requirement. OR AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE.

Competitive Qualifications:

# Previous experience handling laboratory mice is strongly preferred.

# Previous experience conducting independent biology research is strongly preferred.

#Experience performing PCR, plasmid preps, and/or genomic extraction of DNA is preferred

#Energetic individuals with good organization skills.

#Responsible, self disciplined with good time management skills.

#Superb work ethic and attention to technical detail.

#Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well on teams of colleagues from diverse backgrounds is required

# Curious and willing to learn new cellular/molecular techniques.