Research Technician

A Research Technician performs technical laboratory duties and/or basic data analysis in support of a research project. The laboratory analyses at this level may involve sophisticated techniques that are generally learned on the job. This position may also analyze data and produce graphs and charts for publication.

Nature of Work: This position works on a grant or research project and performs specific analytical laboratory procedures, usually limited in number and repetitive. The position performs data recording and preliminary analysis and may prepare graphs and charts for publication. Work at this level is non-exempt and represents a basic level of scientific contribution involving some theoretical knowledge. This work is distinguished from Biological Scientist since standardized procedures and protocols are used. Research Technicians perform preliminary analysis of data and may produce graphs and charts for publication, rather than final analysis of data and drafting portions of publications. This position is Time-Limited.

• Perform and maintain cell culture under sterile conditions (primary and immortalized cell lines).
• Conduct cell-based assays, including viability, proliferation, and cytokine measurement assays.
• Process patient blood samples for downstream analysis (e.g., isolation of plasma, PBMCs, and serum).
• Assist with experimental setup, data collection, and basic analysis.
• Prepare reagents, maintain detailed lab records, and ensure compliance with laboratory safety standards.
• Support general laboratory organization, inventory, and equipment maintenance.
• Perform standard laboratory procedures such as radioisotope labeling, slide preparation with staining, and assays for protein, RNA, DNA, or other cellular components.
• Care for laboratory animals, including preparation for surgery and post-operative care.
• Order laboratory equipment, calibrate instruments, and prepare equipment for use.
• Monitor and guide student assistants.
• Prepare graphs, charts, and tables from experimental results for presentations and publications.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent and three years of laboratory or research experience. College coursework in a natural or physical science may be substituted for the required experience on a year for year basis.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with blood or tissue sample processing
• Experience with cell culture
• Familiarity with ELISA, PCR, and/or flow cytometry techniques
• Prior work in an academic or hospital research setting

Working at USF

With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.

About USF

The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference. Learn more at www.usf.edu .

Compliance and Federal Notices

This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.

Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws :

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.

Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)

Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.