Research Technician III

The Research Technician III conducts research under the direction of a principal investigator. The RT-III works on independent projects, collects and analyzes data and reports results. This position is responsible for coordinating multiple research studies as well as the analytical, administrative and supervisory functions necessary to manage the department's research programs. The RT-III directs research assistants and medical students.

Minimum Education
Bachelor's Degree Bachelor's degree in basic science or related field. (Required)
Master's Degree (Preferred)

Minimum Work Experience
3 years At least 3-7 years of progressive experience. (Required)

Required Skills/Knowledge
Knowledge of statistics and advanced mathematics.
Proficiency in the use of a wide variety of lab techniques, research equipment and research-related software.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
Proven ability to communicate effectively with a multi-disciplinary research team.
Demonstrated experience in laboratory methods, such as gel electrophoresis, PCR analysis, protein purification and DNA purification.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, such as MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
Experience handling laboratory animals.

Functional Accountabilities
Responsible Conduct of Research

• Consistently demonstrates adherence to the standards for the responsible conduct of research.

• Plans, conducts and manages research projects within federal and institutional regulations and policies under the direction of the principal investigator.

• Uses research funds and resources appropriately.

• Maintains confidentiality of data as required.

• Meets all annual job-related training and compliance requirements.

Laboratory Work

• Performs routine and non-routine tests, such as western blots, immunoprecipitation and immunofluorescence as directed.

• Records and checks results for completeness and accuracy.

• Performs tasks that require familiarity with techniques and equipment.

Project Planning

• Independently develops experimental methods and performs data analysis.

• Assists with planning specific research protocols and procedures.

• Coordinates schedules of tests and procedures.

• Assists staff in developing and troubleshooting new techniques and ideas.

• Modifies methods and protocols in conjunction with the principal investigator.

Data Collection and Analysis

• Formulates and defends hypotheses; elaborates on design and execution of experiments that could test these hypotheses.

• Develops methods and protocols to implement experiments, including gel electrophoresis, PCR analysis, protein purifications and DNA purifications.

• Makes detailed observations and keeps an accurate laboratory notebook.

• Presents and discusses work at weekly laboratory meetings and national symposia.

Project Management

• Oversees the management of lab-related materials and monitors cost effectiveness.

• Coordinates multiple research studies.

• Maintains awareness of deadlines and plans appropriately for upcoming staffing and project needs.

• Demonstrates strong time management skills and plans for the completion of projects on time.

• Trains and mentors new staff as needed.

• Assists with determining work assignments, schedules and priorities.

Data Maintenance

• Develops and modifies databases as needed.

• Collects, codes, and compiles statistics (coding of data requires interpretation of data from a broad range of alternatives).

Internal and External Customer Relations

• Responds to both internal and external requests in an effective and friendly customer service manner.
• Anticipate and responds to customer needs; follows up until needs are met

Teamwork/Communication

• Demonstrate collaborative and respectful behavior

• Partner with all team members to achieve goals

• Receptive to others' ideas and opinions

Performance Improvement/Problem-solving

• Contribute to a positive work environment

• Demonstrate flexibility and willingness to change

• Identify opportunities to improve clinical and administrative processes

• Make appropriate decisions, using sound judgment

Cost Management/Financial Responsibility

• Use resources efficiently

• Search for less costly ways of doing things

Safety

• Speak up when team members appear to exhibit unsafe behavior or performance

• Continuously validate and verify information needed for decision making or documentation

• Stop in the face of uncertainty and takes time to resolve the situation

• Demonstrate accurate, clear and timely verbal and written communication

• Actively promote safety for patients, families, visitors and co-workers

• Attend carefully to important details - practicing Stop, Think, Act and Review in order to self-check behavior and performance