Research Technologist

• Perform isolation of bacteria and viruses, nucleic acid extraction, real time PCR, ELISA, Luminex multiplex immunoassays, cloning.
• Process biospecimens from community-based and clinical study populations.
• Process saliva, anterior nares, serum, and plasma specimens for SARS-CoV-2 molecular and serological testing.
• Perform nucleic acid extraction on saliva, anterior nares, serum, and plasma.
• Test biospecimens from community-based and clinical study populations for SARS-CoV-2, influenza viruses, and other microbial pathogens.
• Perform real-time PCR assays, Luminex microsphere magnetic bead-based immunoassays, ELISA.
• Perform bacterial culture of environmental, human and animal specimens.
• Testing of bacterial isolates for antimicrobial susceptibility. (disk diffusion)
• Perform nucleic acid extraction. (manual and automated)
• Perform RT-qPCR and endpoint PCR including polyacrylamide and agarose gel electrophoresis.
• Prepare and test specimens for antibodies against pathogens and for pathogens. (ELISA; Luminex)
• Maintain detailed records of quality assurance and quality control for specimens and specimen analyses.
• Record and analyze results, organize data, perform basic computations, and develop reports and summaries of analyses.
• Operate basic and advanced laboratory equipment, including automated nucleic acid extraction system, RT-qPCR instrument, microplate washer and reader, incubator, spectrophotometer, laminar flow hood, thermal cycler and other basic lab equipment.

Other responsibilities include:

• Contribute to general maintenance of the laboratory, equipment and supplies.
• Maintain and make minor adjustments to equipment, e.g. calibrations.
• Monitor inventory levels, order materials and supplies in accordance with established policies and maintain records.

• Bachelor’s degree in fields related to biology, chemistry required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Some related post-undergraduate work experience preferred.

Special Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Bacterial culture, isolation of bacteria and viruses, nucleic acid extraction, real time PCR, ELISA, Luminex multiplex immunoassays, cloning.
• Equipment to be used: Nucleic acid extraction & qPCR instrument, Luminex instrument, ELISA reader.

Technical qualifications or specialized certifications:

• CITI human subjects research ethics training, biosafety training, blood-borne pathogens training, IATA shipping training.
• Any specific physical requirements for the job: In-person work in active BSL2 microbiology and immunology laboratory.