Vanderbilt University Jobs

A molecular biology and genetics lab seeks an outstanding self-motivated research technician who is passionate about research. This is especially an ideal position for a recent undergraduate who wants to get the full ‘lab experience’. The research technician will work collaboratively with other lab member(s). The research technician will be mentored by an existing lab member (e.g. graduate student) and is expected to help carry out experiments needed to make progress on existing and new projects. Research technician is also expected to be generally resourceful when and where required (e.g. making media, autoclaving, etc).

The research technician must be meticulous, careful, and detail-oriented to ensure that experimental tasks are done appropriately. They must also be well-organized and should be able to keep a detailed and neat lab notebook. It is expected that the research technician will work independently with minimal supervision once they are shown how to perform a given task. research technician must be responsive and effectively communicate with the PI and the lab member(s) they are working with.

The Department of Biological Sciences has an excellent staff to facilitate issue resolution involving personnel, financial management, supply and equipment orders proposal submission, and infrastructure. The faculty in the department carry out diverse research projects and often collaborate with other members within the department and in nearby departments. This department covers a broad spectrum of biology, from molecules and cells to tissues and organisms to populations and ecosystems. Award-winning faculty and graduate students teach and carry out research in Biochemistry, Structural Biology and Biophysics, Cell Biology, Genetics, Molecular Biology, Computational Biology, Evolutionary Biology, Ecology, Developmental Biology, and Neurobiology.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Under supervision, plan, conduct and evaluate experiments and assays of varying complexity.

• Plan and coordinate experiments directly and in conjunction with Principal Investigator (PI) and other lab member(s).

• Understand and follow experimental protocols.

• Take initiative and troubleshoot failed experiments and optimize procedures.

• Employ proper molecular biology techniques to ensure consistency across samples and minimize contamination of valuable reagents.

• Keep neat and detailed records of experiments in a lab notebook.

• Master CRISPR genome editing technology.

• Attend and participate in regular one-on-one and group laboratory meetings.

• Ensure smooth and effective laboratory operations.

• Make common lab reagents and solutions as required.

• Perform other lab duties as necessary to ensure lab members have the resources and reagents they need for experiments.

• Be flexible in their day-to-day schedule to complete experiments.

• Communicate effectively to coordinate effort. Respond promptly to emails.

• Other duties as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related field is necessary.

• Evidence of excellence in science and laboratory coursework is preferred.

• At least one year of undergraduate research experience working in a molecular biology laboratory.

• Molecular biology experience is strongly preferred.

• Research experience or 2 or more years in the same lab is a plus.

• Strong reference from the previous or current lab supervisor is a must.

• Ability to adhere to environmental health and safety standards is necessary.

• Ability to adhere to scientific integrity standards in data collection and reporting is necessary.

• Ability to understand and follow scientific research protocols and procedures is strongly preferred.

• Proficiency in written and oral scientific communication is preferred.

• Ability to work in a collaborative environment and take direction is strongly preferred.

• Ability to analyze and interpret scientific data is preferred.

Supervisory Relationships

This position may require supervising undergraduate lab aides; this position reports administratively to the department Administrative Manager and functionally to PI.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

At Vanderbilt University, we are intentional about and assume accountability for fostering advancement and respect for equity, diversity, and inclusion for all students, faculty, and staff. Our commitment to diversity makes us who we are. We have created a community that celebrates differences and lets individuality thrive. As part of this commitment, we actively value diversity in our workplace and learning environments as we seek to take advantage of the rich backgrounds and abilities of everyone. The diverse voices of Vanderbilt represent an invaluable resource for the University in its efforts to fulfill its mission and strive to be an example of excellence in higher education.

Vanderbilt University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.

Please note, all candidates selected for an offer of employment are subject to pre-employment background checks, which may include but are not limited to, based on the role for which they have been selected: criminal history, education verification, social media review, motor vehicle records, credit history, and professional license verification