Laboratory Research Technician at University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Laboratory Research Technician

Biological Sciences - Pennsylvania-Pittsburgh - (26002110)

The Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences has an exciting opportunity for a Research Technician in the Levin lab the Biological Sciences department. Please see our website at https://www.teralevinlab.com

This position is ideally suited for someone comfortable with microbiology and molecular biology techniques who wants to gain research experience before graduate/professional school. Technicians will also have an opportunity to carry out their own research projects under the supervision of senior researchers in the lab.

To apply, please include a <1 page cover letter including the following information:
- Why are you interested in this position?
- Why do you think you would be a good candidate for the position?
- What are potential start dates that would work for you?
- What are your long- and short-term career goals (including your ideal time frame for the next stages in your career)?

Responsibilities:
- The focus of this position is to study arms races between Legionella bacteria and their natural hosts at the molecular level. The work will involve microbiology, molecular biology (e.g. molecular cloning, DNA extractions, sequencing), tissue culture, and routine handling of bacterial cultures. Some training in computational biology may also be included.
- Primary responsibilities include executing data collection, processing and analysis as well as assisting with ongoing research projects in the lab.
- Secondary responsibilities include lab management, ordering scientific lab supplies, and maintaining equipment.
- Based on the interest and ability of the technician, they may also be responsible for the development and execution of independent research projects.
- Handling of live, non-attenuated (biosafety level 2) organisms, molecular biology, and routine bioinformatics will be required.
- Participation in lab meetings and presentation of data will be required

Qualifications:
- Experience with cell culture and asceptic technique, PCR, gel electrophoresis, and/or molecular cloning is required.
- Prior experience with microbiology, evolutionary biology, and/or bioinformatics is highly preferred. Specific expertise in the genetic engineering of Legionella pneumophila by allelic exchange and the testing of those strains in experimental infections is highly preferred.
- Education requirements: Bachelor's degree in biology or a related discipline (or equivalent experience) required
- Must be able to work independently as well as part of a larger team of scientists
- Strong written and verbal communication is required.
- Meticulous attention to detail is essential. Superior organizational skills in record keeping, multitasking, prioritizing responsibilities, and time management are required.
- Enthusiasm for discovery and basic scientific research is required.
- A two-year commitment is greatly preferred, but exceptions for outstanding candidates can be made.

Job Summary

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Essential Functions

Performs a variety of laboratory experiments and procedures. Prepares specimens. Oversees supply management. Operates and properly maintains equipment.

Physical Effort

Candidates must be able to lift boxes of ~20 lbs onto and off of laboratory shelves and into autoclaves. Extensive pipetting and microbiology will require manual dexterity and an ability to stand or sit at a bench or biosafety cabinet for up to 3 hrs at a time.

Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Laboratory Research Technician II

Job Family: Research

Job Sub Family: Laboratory

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 1

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: Combination of education and relevant experience will be considered in lieu of education and/ or experience requirement.

Work Schedule: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, plus occasional weekend check-ins (
Work Arrangement: Hybrid: Combination of On-Campus and Remote work as determined by the department.

Hiring Range: $17.74 to $22.17 per hour

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter

Optional Documents: Not Applicable