Laboratory Technician

Laboratory Technician

The University of Pittsburgh's Renal-Electrolyte Division is seeking a part-time Laboratory Technician to perform laboratory experiments and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples within an NIH (National Institutes of Health) funded laboratory. Our laboratory employs exciting cutting-edge methods from a variety of disciplines, including molecular biology, cellular biology, and animal physiology to elucidate the effects of diet, pharmaceuticals, and genetics on kidney health.

The incumbent must be open to the possibility of working with rodents. The work requires supervision and tasks are provided for the employee to perform.

Performs laboratory testing and some analysis on multiple types of specimen samples. Operates and properly sterilizes equipment and maintains inventory and assists with ordering.

• Performs laboratory testing and some analysis, including organizes, prepares, and tests multiple types of specimen samples within a supervised environment.
• Maintains compliance with the institutions environmental health and safety policy.
• Operates and maintains applicable laboratory equipment for job functions.
• Keeps detailed, accurate, and timely data and logbooks. Organizes and documents results.
• Sterilizes, maintains, and cleans lab equipment; prepares work areas; and maintains cleanliness throughout laboratory.
• Maintains inventories and assists with ordering proper supplies and chemicals.
• Willingness to learn new experimental procedures including molecular cloning, cell culture, mouse genotyping. Must be able to follow protocols and maintain organized inventory and accurate laboratory notebook. Must be able to adapt experimental approaches based on weekly discussions with primary investigator and lab manager.
• Data Analysis includes being able to learn computer programs to analyze data such as Excel, Imaris, BioRad imaging software, GraphPad Prism. Must organize data and present data to the laboratory using powerpoint.
• Laboratory Maintenance includes preparing commonly used buffers, maintenance of cell lines, inventory and ordering, documentation of lab protocols.

Moderate physical effort required. May be required to stand/move for several hours at a time. May be required to move objects up to 50 pounds with or without assistance of equipment.

The University of Pittsburgh is an equal opportunity employer / disability / veteran.