Department

Applied Physical Sciences - 318100

Career Area

Laboratory Management and Services

Posting Open Date

04/05/2023

Application Deadline

04/26/2023

Position Type

Temporary Staff (SHRA)

Position Title

Research Technician in Molecular Biology

Position Number

20053514

Vacancy ID

S021140

Full-time/Part-time

Full-Time Temporary

Hours per week

40

Work Schedule

Monday through Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm
Flexible

Position Location

North Carolina, US

Hiring Range

$15.00 - $20.00 per hour

Proposed Start Date

Estimated Duration of Appointment

6 months not to exceed 11 months

Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit

Launched in 2013, the Department of Applied Physical Sciences (APS) is the first new science department in the College of Arts and Sciences in nearly 40 years. Including the Chapel Hill Analytical and Nanofabrication Laboratory (CHANL) and the graduate program in material sciences, Applied Physical Sciences has united numerous scientific entities on campus to further its mission of finding interdisciplinary solutions to real-world problems. Its newest endeavor, BeAM (Be A Maker), is a university-wide initiative that incorporates Making into research, education, and entrepreneurship. BeAM is comprised of several spaces, including a makerspace in Hanes Art Center, Carmichael Residence Hall, and a 3,400 square foot Makerspace in Murray Hall, all of which serve the entire UNC community.

Position Summary

The Freeman Lab at the department of Applied Physical Sciences at UNC-Chapel Hill is an interdisciplinary space dedicated to the study of basic and translational science required to understand cell-extra cellular matrix interactions for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
The Freeman lab seeks a research technician/assistant responsible for the planning, development, and implementation of molecular biology experimental procedures, performing laboratory techniques, and collecting, documenting, evaluating, interpreting, and analyzing data to identify trends and appropriate conclusions.
The Research Assistant will perform molecular biology techniques; transform and culture bacteria for protein production; perform routine culture, transfection, maintenance and assay of stem cells and human cell lines, perform experiments involving PCR , preparation of DNA and RNA , protein purification and western blot analysis. The technician will also assist with the day-to-day management of the bio-related research laboratory operations including supervising students and ensuring compliance with chemical and biosafety regulations. Attendance at regularly scheduled lab meetings is expected.
The Research Assistant must be able to read and understand the scientific literature and execute experiments as outlined in the protocols. High level of responsibility, and independence are required for this position. The candidate for the Research Assistant should have a solid background in molecular biology techniques and must master the aseptic technique for tissue culture purposes, must be extremely organized and detail oriented, capable of working on multiple projects simultaneously and maintain detailed notes on each experiment.
Responsibilities, Tasks and Outcomes:
Culturing stem cells and human cell-lines.
Perform cell manipulation procedures such as cell enrichment, cell passage, cryopreservation and cell product thaw/wash.
Performs calculations including for reagents dilutions and cell concentrations.
Adhere to institutional and regulatory guidelines when handling, recording, and collecting data and samples.
Perform cellular and molecular assays, flow cytometry, western blot analysis and fluorescent imaging.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.

Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Demonstrable evidence of successfully implementing molecular biology techniques in a research environment. Proficient with molecular biology bench techniques (PCR, gel electrophoresis, plasmid construction, transformation, CRISPR -Cas9, etc.). Familiarity with microplate readers, coulter counters, cell enumeration techniques, colorimetric / fluorescent assays and related instrumentation to evaluate targeted modifications. Independent troubleshooting and experimentation. Ability to learn quickly in a fast-paced environment. Ability to interface with external laboratories and consultants. Organized and possess excellent attention to detail; creative, flexible, proactive, punctual, and persistent; a team player; able to Self-Manage; comfortable with a demanding fast-paced work environment and able to excel in a growing environment. Understanding of basic laboratory techniques.

Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience

Experience with cellular and molecular assays, flow cytometry, western blot quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) and reverse transcription q PCR (qRT-PCR), DNA and RNA sample preparation, Immunofluorescence assays is a plus.
Proficient with bioinformatics tools for primer design, construct design, and sequence analysis is a plus.

Special Physical/Mental Requirements

Campus Security Authority Responsibilities

Not Applicable.