Lab Researcher Technician - Numata-Nakamura Lab

Summary

The Numata-Nakamura lab at National Jewish Health is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Lab Researcher Technician to join our team. Our lab is studying innate immunity of the lung, focusing on anti-viral effects of pulmonary surfactant phospholipids against respiratory viruses (e.g., Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Influenza A, Rhinovirus and SARS-CoV-2) using primary human airway epithelial cells and immune cells.

Techniques used in the lab include, human primary cell cultures maintained in air-liquid interface cultures, fluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, ELISA, molecular biology (DNA/RNA isolation, PCR), and viral replication to make recombinant viruses. Training on specific techniques used in the laboratory will be provided. Significant experience with bacterial culture and molecular biology and/or mammalian cells is strongly preferred. 

Candidates should possess a BA or BS in the biological sciences. While prior experience is not required for this position, candidates who have been exposed to basic research methods and show enthusiasm for basic science research are strongly preferred. The work performed will be under the supervision of Dr. Numata-Nakamura or other senior personnel. The ideal candidate should demonstrate attention to detail and be organized, responsible, and a good communicator. Additional tasks will include general laboratory maintenance and operations. A cover letter is required for review of the application. 

Position Summary    

The position performs as an entry level technician under the direction of a Principal Investigator or Laboratory Manager which may include assisting in collecting, tabulating and analyzing research data.  

Essential Duties    

1. Performs routine laboratory tests under the direction of a Principal Investigator or Lab Manager.
2. Collects, accurately records and analyzes data in conjunction with other research staff.
3. Obtains and maintains minimum proficiency in data analysis, preparation of glassware, extraction and plating procedures, basic programming and mathematical ordering systems.  May utilize computer.
4. Maintains compliance with all institutional/safety training requirements.
5. Maintains laboratory records, supplies and samples in an organized manner (such as a laboratory notebook and sample storage record).

Core Values    

1. Be available to work as scheduled and report to work on time.
2. Be willing to accept supervision and work well with others.
3. Be well groomed, appropriately for your role and wear ID Badge visibly.
4. Be in compliance with all departmental and institutional policies, the Employee Handbook, Code of Conduct and completes NetLearning by due date annually.
5. Fosters an inclusive workplace where diversity and individual differences are valued and leveraged to achieve the vision and mission of the institution.
6. Adheres to safe working practices and at all times follows all institutional and departmental safety policies and procedures. 
7. Wears appropriate PPE as outlined by the infection control policies and procedures.
8. Demonstrates compliance with all state, federal and all other regulatory agency requirements.

Other Duties

1. Performs all other duties as assigned.

Key Competencies    

1. Laboratory Knowledge: Demonstrates and understands laboratory testing and methodology.
2. Decision Quality: Makes good decisions based upon a mixture of analysis, wisdom, experience, and judgement.  Sought out by others for advice and solutions.
3. Adaptability: Maintains effectiveness in the midst of change in work responsibilities or environment, requirements ambiguity, or stress.
4. Problem Solving: Uses issue identification, data relation and comparison, pattern recognition and information gathering to create analyses and make recommendations.
5. Informing/Communicating: Conveys ideas, responses, or instructions effectively, appropriately, and persuasively through writing or speech.
6. Professional Relationships: Interacts with others in a constructive, positive, and respectful manner, regardless of individual differences. Assists team members or co-workers in achieving personal goals and completing assignments.

Minimum Qualifications

1. Education: BS /BA degree required.
2. Work Experience: None
3. Special Training, Certification and Licensure: A demonstrated basic knowledge of laboratory procedures, laboratory equipment, and data collection /classification required.

Salary Range: $19.00 - $21.00

Benefits
At National Jewish Health, we recognize that our outstanding faculty and staff are the essence of our organization. For every aspect of health care, our employees are our greatest asset.
With that in mind, we have designed a valuable, comprehensive benefits package to meet the needs of our employees and their families.

• Medical Plans, Dental Plans and Vision Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• FSA and HSA
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Life Insurance and AD&D
• Voluntary Benefits, like Accident Insurance, Critical Care and Hospital Indemnity
• Sick and Vacation Paid Time Off
• Wellness Program
• Legal Plan